spring break trips on a budget

35 Cheap Spring Break Trips for Families (Fun Spots that are Actually Affordable)

Posted on Published: January 2, 2023  - Last updated: February 28, 2024

Woo-hoo! Spring break! Ready to go somewhere awesome? But are you also watching your spending? #storyofmylife Well here are 35 amazing cheap spring break trips for families that are actually fun!

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So whether you’re looking to kick back and relax on a beach, take in some history and go for high adventure, this list has a bit of everything.

As someone who’s actively crossing off travel bucket list destinations, I’ve been a lot of places. But obviously not everywhere so I called in back-up! To create the most comprehensive list possible, some travel blogger friends of mine helped out in creating this list of best family destinations for spring break.

And we’re covering the globe with this list! We’ll start in the USA, then head on over to Asia, Europe, the Caribbean and more!

Map of the best spring break destinations for families

If you’re a visual person, here’s a map to help you plan a vacation your family will not soon forget! Pinch an zoom on this world map since there’s destinations in nearly every region that are attainable on a budget.

Spring break family vacations

Since this list is so vast, we’re going to start in the USA and then follow other regions like Europe, Caribbean and more. Be sure to follow the tips and tricks for how to do each spot on a budget!

Here are the best cheap spring break trips for families. Let’s do this!

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Best spring break destinations in the US for families

The USA is a big place with lots of phenomenal options. So we’re going to focus on affordable vacation spots in the west first, then make our way across the country.

1. Phoenix, Arizona

Warm weather and budget-friendly activities make Phoenix the perfect spot for a family spring break trip! 

Avoid expensive resorts, and stay at a vacation rental property. The nightly rate won’t break the bank, and you can save money by cooking your own meals. Rent a home with a pool and splash around without worrying about crowds or resort fees. 

Explore incredible hiking locations around the greater Phoenix area. Admire cacti and sunset views at Papago Park as you trek through the red butte formations. It’s perfect for hikers of all ages. Older kids and adults can enjoy a more challenging hike up Camelback Mountain while taking in phenomenal 360-degree views. 

Attend Major League Baseball Spring Training any day of the week from late February to the end of March. It’s free to watch batting practice and get autographs from up-and-coming stars. And most stadiums offer single-digit ticket prices for your family to relax picnic-style on their outfield lawn and take in the ball game. 

Don’t forget…Phoenix is only a day trip away from the world-famous Grand Canyon and magical Sedona. Make memories with under the Arizona sun, as Phoenix is the spring break destination for families !

Recommended by Abby of Worth Every Trip

READ MORE: Perfect Phoenix Itinerary

2. Utah National Parks road trip (a favorite on this list of cheap spring break trips for families)

One of the best ideas for cheap spring break trips is to see the Mighty 5 in Utah – Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. By taking a  Utah national parks road trip , you’ll be able to spend time outdoors, which is one of the cheapest ways to vacation.

If you live in Western USA, you may be able to drive to Utah to start your road trip. If you’re not very close, your family can fly into Salt Lake City and enjoy the sights for a day or two, including these wildflower hikes in Salt Lake City – perfect for springtime. From there, you can visit the 5 national parks, then depart from Las Vegas.

Visiting 5 national parks, you’ll want to save money by purchasing an America the Beautiful pass . It gets you unlimited national park and federally preserved lands for one fee, instead of paying for each, saving you lots of money.

See massive views at Canyonlands National Park near Moab. Witness unreal landscapes with over 2,000 stone arches at Arches National Park. This park has many short hikes, perfect for young kids!

Then, head west within Utah to Capitol Reef National Park. All ages will love the  Hickman Bridge Trial ! From there, visit the impressive Bryce Canyon and the crazy hoodoos as far as the eye can see. Be sure to hike the Queens Garden Trail to experience the hoodoos up close.

The last of the Mighty 5 in Utah is Zion. One of the most popular national parks in the country, spring break is a great time to visit. There will be less crowds than in the summer and fall, yet the weather is better than wintertime. 

Your family will have fun with so many things to do in  Zion with kids ! Don’t miss hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail , Riverside Walk and the Mt. Carmel Highway scenic drive.

There are so many ways to save money on this trip, including camping or finding budget hotels along the way. The Utah national parks is by far one of the best cheap spring break trips for families!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

3. Estes Park, Colorado

If you are looking for affordable spring break trips for families, then you should definitely consider visiting Estes Park, Colorado.  Located at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, this small town is big on personality.

There are so many affordable  things to do in Estes Park, CO  that you and your family will be entertained for days! 

The most popular attraction in this area is Rocky Mountain National Park. You can spend days hiking the many trails and discovering all of the fabulous wildlife that calls Rocky Mountain National Park home. 

In order to save some money on entry, be sure to buy an annual National Park Pass. This pass will allow you entry to all U.S. National Parks for an entire year!

You can also take the kids to do some stargazing at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory , which is free to enter! Or grab a fishing pole and do some fishing at Lake Estes. After all of this, be sure to take some time to explore the downtown area with all of the great shops and restaurants.

Estes Park, Colorado truly is a great destination for families!

Recommended by Michelle of That Texas Couple

Related read: Colorado Road Trip Itinerary – 22 Stops You’ll Love

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Thanks to the outdoor activities and affordable options for camping and hotels, Joshua Tree makes for a great spring break destination for families!

Spring is the perfect time for a day trip to Joshua Tree as part of a California road trip or a longer stay to really explore the park. The weather makes it an ideal time to visit with cooler mornings and evenings and perfect temperatures for hiking in the day time.

To keep Joshua Tree affordable, your best option is to camp for your accommodations. Campsites start at $15 a night and go up to $25 a night. Make sure to make a reservation in advance if you are visiting in the spring.

For those who don’t enjoy camping, there are plenty of affordable hotels near the park as well if you are willing to drive about 20 – 30 minutes to get to the park.

As far as visiting Joshua Tree, entry to the park is $30 for a 7-day pass. If you already have an America the Beautiful pass, entry is free. If not, it might be worth the $80 if you plan to visit other National Parks during the next 12 months.

Once you are in the park, the activities are free. Many of the hiking trails are perfect for kids as they are mostly flat, well-marked, and not too difficult. Joshua Tree is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors for an unforgettable time with your family.

Start in LA and head to Joshua Tree, just about 130 miles away, which is one of the best US road trips for your family!

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Related: 28 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in Summer

5. Sedona, Arizona

Consider Sedona at the top of the list of spring break ideas for families on a budget! The weather is warm but not too hot and there are endless possibilities of free things to do .

Sedona is perfect for outdoor activities and taking in the beautiful red rocks the area is known for. The best hikes in Sedona are great for families, including kids young and old!

One of the best places to visit is Oak Creek Canyon and then into Slide Rock State Park. For the adventurous family, head to Oak Creek for rafting, kayaking or tubing and then over to Slide Rock to check out the pools and sandstone rocks.

Hiking in Sedona is a great way to see the scenery and for a $5 Red Rock Pass, you will have access to several different hikes in the area.  

One of the most popular hikes is Devil’s Bridge. This is a 4 mile easy hike that takes you to a natural red rock bridge in the area. If you have a 4×4 this hike is only a two mile hike, making it even easier for kids. Make sure you bring plenty of water and go early!

Sedona also has affordable places to stay.  You can check out these incredible  Airbnbs in Sedona  for some family friendly accommodations.

Sedona is one of the best spring break destinations for families , with it’s outdoor adventure, great weather and affordable accommodations.

Recommended by Nicole of American SW Obsessed

6. Yosemite National Park, California

The vast Yosemite National Park is an outdoor destination situated in the green heartland of Central California. It’s truly one of the top spring break destinations in the US!

Famous for its plethora of natural attractions, a  guide to Yosemite National Park  is one of the easiest ways to make the most of your time in the park.

There’s the iconic Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and El Capitan which soars over the valley. Make a quick pit stop at the numerous lookout points such as Tunnel View or Glacier Point, to marvel at the geological wonders of the park.

Stay dry and warm as you explore Yosemite during the spring. Snow is melting, flowers are in full bloom and waterfalls are cascading from the mountainside snow. Enjoy Bridalveil Falls, (0.5 miles out and back), or witness Yosemite Falls (1 mile loop), the tallest waterfall in North America.

Take the family on an easy level hike through Mirror Lake, or venture toward the backcountry to explore Cathedral Peak and Lakes for a more moderate to strenuous hike. Pack a picnic, snacks and extra water for a more budget friendly trip while visiting Yosemite.

Consider camping in the valley to save on time and to wake up amongst the giant oak trees. The cool morning breeze and fresh oak smell is truly an amazing feeling.

Yosemite is by far one of the best family destinations for spring break!

Recommended by Ciara from Wellness Travel Diaries

Cheap spring break trips for families in the US

Next let’s look at the center part of the United States. The middle states of the Midwest and South Central region are some of the most affordable spring break family vacations! Don’t be fooled by these ‘flyover states’ as they can make for excellent destinations.

Let’s dive back in!

7. Omaha, Nebraska (underrated and one of the best spring break destinations for families)

If you’re looking for great spot for spring break destination for families, look no further than the middle of the country! With family-oriented values, Omaha is a fantastic spot to vacation.

Nebraska’s #1 tourist attraction is the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . It regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the top zoo in the country!

With plenty of indoor exhibits like the jungle, desert dome, butterfly house and aquarium, you can enjoy a day – or more – at the zoo, regardless of the weather. Head on over to feed the giraffes, hear the lions roar or watch the elephants and zebras meandering among their large habitat. It’s truly a spectacular zoo!

Other kid-friendly Omaha attractions include the Lauritzen Gardens, Durham Museum, Joslyn Art Museum, Fontenelle Forest, just to name a few. Also make sure to walk the Bob Kerry Pedestrian bridge. It’s the first bridge to connect 2 states together. So you’ll get to see Iowa while in Omaha.

The downtown area is probably the most touristy spot in the city to stay, which makes it a little more pricey too. Finding a vacation rental property or staying in a hotel further from downtown will help to keep your price down.

But do make sure to visit the historic Old Market , as you’ll find some of the most Instagrammable spots in Omaha , not to mention some amazing restaurants.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is one of the most underrated destinations in the country when it comes to celebrating a spring break getaway.

Most people think of the city as pricey and a party city. However, you would be surprised to know that t he city is a top cultural destination and has many budget-friendly attractions for families . 

Spring Break is a relatively quiet time in the city. The festivities of Mardi Gras are just over and the city enjoys a lull between parades and summer tourists. That’s why during spring break, you can find really good hotel deals in New Orleans . 

Take a free walking tour of the French Quarter , enjoy free jazz music at the Preservation Hall, take a hike on the swamps at Barataria Preserve, and spot an alligator. Take a ghost tour of the city to keep teens happy or an airboat tour of the swamps.

Enjoy the many culinary delights in the city and enjoy a break with your family. 

Recommended by Ketki of Dotted Globe

Read next: 21 Best Beaches in Florida for Families

9. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

What is there to do in South Dakota for families? Well, a ton, actually! But for starters, there’s Badlands National Park in southwestern South Dakota, which is one of the best cheap spring break trips for families.

One of the most underrated national parks in the USA Badlands National Park can be explored without long lines of cars and overcrowded spaces.

There’s a ton of things to do in Badlands National Park , but my family’s favorite was hiking. From easy boardwalk trails to challenging terrain, there’s a variety of options for every family, age and skill level.

While there are plenty of designated trails, Badlands National Park is also an open hike park, meaning you can freely explore the park off-trail. Just use caution if doing this, as some of the scenery can be disorienting!

Close to Badlands National Park is Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills of South Dakota. Custer State Park is a phenomenal park to experience with families, too.

So if you’re looking for spring break ideas for families on a budget, the Badlands and Black Hills in South Dakota is a really good option!

More spring break destination for families in the US

Heading toward the eastern part of the country, here are the top picks for cheap spring break trips for families.

10. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson River Valley, north of New York City, is a great spring destination for families on a budget who want to experience the American northeast. 

The area has plenty of awesome hikes that the whole family can do. It costs just $10/ car to visit Minnewaska State Park for the day. Find adventure with easy hikes around a lake and to a waterfall. 

There are also  plenty of hikes  you can do for free, including:

• Poets’ Walk – great views of the Catskill Mountains and the Kingston-Rhinebeck Bridge
• Black Creek Preserve – stunning views of the Hudson River and a tiny beach
• Stony Kill Falls – a beautiful waterfall
• Shaupeneak Ridge Trails – a lake with lily ponds, fern groves and a small waterfall 

For a splurge, you can take a 2-hour sightseeing cruise down the river from Kingston. The river has a couple of lighthouses that kids will love and is lined with trees that are especially beautiful in spring.

There are also many farms open for spring fruit picking such as strawberries and apricots. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

Many farms have petting zoos, but another great opportunity for kids to see farm animals is the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary (admission by donation), which is home to dozens of rescued farm animals. 

The area has fun for the whole family that costs very little! It’s one of the leading cheap spring break trips for families, and one to seriously consider.

Recommended by James Ian at Travel Collecting

11. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is the perfect spring break destination for a fun, relaxing getaway and an educational, historical adventure. There’s so much to do in Charleston that the whole family will enjoy – from exploring the city’s famous landmarks to enjoying delicious, authentic southern food.

Tips for traveling to Charleston on a budget

• Stay on James Island or Mount Pleasant, just outside of Downtown Charleston for more affordable lodging.
• Rent a car to save on rideshare costs and take advantage of the incredible day trips from Charleston .
• Dining in Charleston can be pricey, save on lunch costs by eating a heart brunch that will satisfy your family until dinner.

Charleston is full of family-friendly activities, and many of them are free!

Enjoy these fun family activities

• Dive under the sea at the South Carolina Aquarium .
• See where the Civil War began at Fort Sumter National Monument.
• Step onboard the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, USS Laffey Destroyer, and USS Clamagore Submarine at Patriot’s Point.
• Admire the pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park.
• Learn how tea is made at North America’s only tea plantation, the Charleston Tea Garden .
• Relax on the beach at Kiawah Island or Folly Beach.

Recommended by Brittany of Travel by Brit

12. Gulf Shores, Alabama (one of the best spring break destinations US)

Wow, it’s hard to believe this is the first beach spot on this list of best spring break destinations for families! But that’s because so many of them aren’t affordable, especially over spring break.

But Gulf Shores, Alabama is the perfect vacation spot for kids. Perhaps the biggest draw to the Gulf Shores and neighboring Orange Beach is the crisp, white sand beach and turquoise water of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s truly stunning!

Beach days are awesome, but there’s so much more to do in Gulf Shores with kids !

Family-freindly activities in Gulf Shores

• Hiking or biking through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trials
• Hunting sand crabs at night
• Free light show at The Wharf at Orange Beach
• Taking a sand castle building class
• Dolphin cruising

And don’t forget to check out all the fun places to eat in Gulf Shores . There are so many family-friendly options, this is definitely one of the best spring break destinations with kids!

For the most affordability, search for accommodations in Gulf Shores or the nearby Orange Beach that are away from the beach. You’ll find inexpensive vacation rentals and hotels that are perfect for your beachy getaway.

For best results, book your stay at minimum a few months in advance. Gulf Shores absolutely deserves a spot on this list of cheap spring break trips for families – it’s truly awesome!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

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13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A fantastic family-friendly destination is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Visiting Philadelphia during spring break can be an important educational experience. The City of Brotherly Love is filled with history and culture, making it both fun and educational for children of all ages.

The city of Philadelphia is the birthplace of America and an important historical destination. The U.S. Constitution was conceived and signed here. General George Washington made his headquarters here. And this was the first capital of the United States of America.

For families on spring break, visiting the Old City is essential. Here visitors can explore the Constitution Center, Betsy Ross’ house, the first hospital in America, and many of Ben Franklin’s important sites. Just outside of the city, there’s Valley Forge National Park where the Continental Army spent several famous winters.

The Germantown neighborhood is one of the most important African American communities in the country and a critical stop on the Underground Railroad. Beyond the history, Philly is a great cultural destination. Younger children will love the Please Touch Museum.

Many of the historical attractions are free or very affordable. Hotels in the center of the city can be a little pricey, but accommodations in the suburbs can be very affordable.

Recommended by Lance and Laura of Guide to Philly

14. Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is a great family-friendly spring break destination that can definitely be done on a budget!  Families can explore all that D.C. has to offer in a budget-friendly way by taking advantage of all of the free activities within the city. 

The Smithsonian museums, most of which line the National Mall, are interactive, suit visitors of all ages, and are all free of charge. Popular Smithsonian museums include the Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of American History. 

The National Zoo is also free and is one of 4 zoos in the U.S. that houses giant pandas.  In addition to visiting the Smithsonian museums, there is much to explore on the National Mall including the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. 

Free tours can also be arranged in advance for the White House and the Capitol Building. For more ideas on how to spend your time in D.C., check out this 3-day itinerary .  Washington D.C. is often overlooked but is one of the best spring break destinations in the US!

Recommended by Sarah of Roadmaps and Restaurants

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

15. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is a wonderful spring break family vacations on the East Coast with so many affordable options!  The jewel of Virginia Beach is its 28 miles of beautiful sandy public beaches.

All public beaches are free and are easily accessible from the downtown hotels at a variety of price points . At a lot of beach destinations, only the high-end hotels and resorts are on the beach, but at Virginia Beach, there are many hotels at all levels.

Budget tip:  check out hotels or rentals with a kitchenette to save money on making meals in the room.

There are tons of great kid-friendly attractions right on the 3-mile Boardwalk! Try the Bike and Surrey Rentals, the King Neptune Statue, fishing on the pier, 31 st  Street Park and a wonderful Grommet Island playground right on the beach!

Off the Boardwalk, check out the famous Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Cape Henry Lighthouse and First Landing State Park. All affordable family fun for kids of all ages!

Spring break tip:  if you want to pair a trip to the beach with a trip to Capital City, it’s only a 3-hour drive north to Washington, DC. There is so much to explore in DC with kids, including the Smithsonian Museums for kids. 

Recommended by Jennifer of Family Trip Guides

Cheap spring break trips for families in Asia

Next, let’s head to Asia! A nice, long spring break is the perfect time to go overseas. Some of the best family destinations for spring break can be found in Asia. It’s culturally rich and full of adventure for the whole family.

Asia is a continent that’s widely affordable , once you get there! Check out these budget travel tips to find the best deals on flights.

16. Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao, an island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a fantastic place to visit for an affordable spring break. This tropical paradise is an amazing place to visit this time of the year for the whole family and this does not have to cost a fortune.

A great option on this list of spring break ideas for families on a budget, Koh Tao is known for blue skies, hot and sunny weather and crystal clear warm water. This is the dry season and both air and water temperature hover at 30 degrees Celsius.

Scuba diving is good in the Gulf of Thailand all year round and March and April is fantastic with the biggest fish in the world, Whale Sharks, being present this time of the year. Swimming with these magnificent docile creatures is an unreal, safe activity.

The dive schools on Koh Tao are known as some of the best and most affordable in the world. If you are not a diver, snorkeling trips around Koh Tao is very popular for all ages , visiting several islands including the magnificent Koh Nang Yuan with some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand.

You can go on a full day or half day snorkeling trip, going around Koh Tao visiting several coral reefs where you can see turtles, reef sharks and many fish.

With high temperatures and humidity, Sairee Beach is a great place to stay. There are many dive centers, restaurants, nice swimming beaches and accommodation to suit all budgets close to the sea with a nice ocean breeze to cool you down.

Recommended by Campbell and Alya of Stingy Nomads

17. Cebu, Philippines (amazing and cheap spring break trips for families)

Cebu is amongst the top 10 largest islands in the Philippines with 196 kilometers from north to south and 32 kilometers across its widest point. It’s also one of the most popular destinations in the country because getting to Cebu is easy. This makes Cebu an affordable spring break destination with kids.

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located close to Cebu City, connects this island to different cities in Asia and major cities around the world. 

Generally, the Philippines is a cheap country where you can easily find affordable luxury hotels and budget accommodation. Eating out in Cebu is relatively cheap, you can go for fine dining by spending only $12 for your meal. 

While in Cebu City , make sure to check out Sirao Flower Garden and take a day trip to Bohol Island. 

The best time to visit the Philippines is in dry seasons, from December to May. Most tourists travel to Cebu in wintertime. That means the island is less busy during the springs while the weather is still pleasant and dry.

Recommended by Mansoureh of Travel With Mansoureh

18. Bali, Indonesia

A picturesque Indonesian island filled with white sand beaches, gorgeous rice terraces and forests, unique temples, and an exotic  Balinese culture , Bali is just the perfect spring break trip for families.

There’s a lot to do in Bali with your little ones. Apart from relaxing at one of Bali’s many beaches, you can check out the monkeys at Ubud’s Monkey Forest, interact with feathered friends at Bali Bird Park and learn all about protecting sea turtles at Bali Sea Turtle Society.

When in Ubud, do not forget to check out the Royal Palace and Hindu temples that are great examples of traditional Balinese architecture. You can also shop for souvenirs at the Ubud Art Market. End your day with a magical sunset at the temple of Tanah Lot, located on a cliff by the sea.

Bali is an ideal destination for budget travelers. Accommodation is cheap and you can even find private villas with stunning views at seriously low prices. Avoid hiring taxis if possible and rent motorbikes instead to get around.

Bali is certainly full of adventure, and one of the most fun cheap spring break trips for families!

Recommended by Soumya from Stories by Soumya

19. Penang, Malaysia

Penang, a UNESCO Word Heritage Site island off Malaysia’s northwestern coast, is one of the best family destinations for spring break.

There are plenty of  things to do in Penang , and most are perfect for families, too. First of all, with 1 USD being equivalent to 4 Malaysian Ringgit (the price of a meal in one of the islands famous hawker food centers), you’ll have everything on a budget. Accommodation, restaurants, transport and entry admissions are all affordable.

Start in George Town, taking in the UNESCO-listed old town and trying all the food you can fancy. Not far away are the Botanic Gardens, a perfect place for families to stroll and unwind appreciating the local nature.

If it’s beach that you want, mind well that Penang doesn’t have amazing clear waters, but the resort-strewn coast near Batu Ferringhi, with its night market and plenty of shops and beach-facing restaurants, is great for tucking toes in the sand.

If your kids are young, a visit to KOMTAR, the island’s highest building, is great as it’s filled with theme-park-alike attractions and at about 15$ per head to enter, makes for very good value.

Recommended by Marco Ferrarese of Penang Insider

20. Sri Lanka

The cultural triangle in Sri Lanka is a great budget destination for families in during spring break. When you think of Sri Lanka you probably think of its beautiful palm-fringed beaches, but Sri Lanka is much more!

Once you go inland there’s a different world of jungles teeming with wildlife and ancient Buddhist temples. With such a variety of things to do there is something for everyone and for every age.

The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka lies in the center of the island and it’s a place where history, culture and nature meet. It’s name refers to the 3 former royal cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla.

All of them left behind well preserved ruins of temples, palaces and Buddhist statues. Most impressive are the colorful Dambulla cave temples and the mysterious Sigiriya Rock.  The Sigiriya Rock is a tough climb with young children, but the views are very rewarding.

In the other places you can rent a bicycle or tuk tuk for more comfort. One thing you will notice is that for the local population these places are still very holy and active places of worship. Another thing you will notice is that the cities are surrounded by thick jungle.

Children will love the opportunity to go on a safari to meet monkeys and elephants up close. Spring is considered to be one of the best times to visit the island’s cultural triangle with dry and sunny weather.

Recommended by Ellis of Backpack Adventures

Europe – spring break destination for families

Let’s check out the best that Europe has to offer for spring break! These spots are the best for families who are looking to travel on a budget. From historically significant cities to beautiful, wide open spaces, Europe has so much to offer families!

21. Athens, Greece (another favorite on this list of spring break destinations with kids)

Athens is a great option if you’re looking for cheap family spring break trips. The city is the capital of Greece and there is plenty to do and see for families here.

Athens is much cheaper than many other European cities, so that’s very convenient. Moreover, Athens has a good metro system so you could also stay a bit further from the city center and save money while still being able to fully experience Athens.

One of the things to do for families includes going to the Acropolis Museum. This is one of the best museums of Greece and is all about the Acropolis. The Acropolis is an old citadel from Ancient Greece located on a hill that you can see from all parts of the city. Here you find the famous Parthenon.

Another thing to do is seeing the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament. Guards dressed up in traditional clothing perform a ceremony where they change shifts.

Besides that, walking through Plaka is a must when you go to Athens . Plaka is the oldest part of Athens with many shops and restaurants. What’s great is that most streets are completely car-free, so kids can run around safely.

Recommended by Dymphe of Dymabroad

22. Rome, Italy

The historic capital of Italy, Rome is an incredible budget spring break destination for families. During this time of the year, the crowds are lighter versus the peak season of summer, and the weather is also quite perfect (50-80°F).

If you have a week in Italy, I’d recommend at least a 3-day Rome itinerary so that you and your family can cover all the main highlights of the city. The historic center of Rome is super family-friendly and an amazing place to take a stroll. Make sure to stop by the Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps.

Kids will also love Piazza Navona, which is home to lots of artists, street performers, and clowns. Be sure to also stop by Villa Borghese for a fun afternoon at the park. Lots of local families go there to relax, and you can also rent a 4-people quadricycle and ride around this charming park.

One great way to budget in Rome is to eat the amazing local specialty of pizza al taglio , which can cost as low as €3 ($3.50) per person per meal. You can find tons of pizzerias around town to try it in. You can also find plenty of great budget accommodations for €7-22 ($8-26 USD) a night !

Recommended by Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

23. Gdansk, Poland

For the best cheap spring break trips for families in Europe, Gdansk is a wonderful place for vacation! There is no shortage of fun but also educational activities for  what to do in Gdansk , with one of Europe’s biggest old towns jam-packed with attractions.

Most of the city was destroyed during World War II, but the Poles have done an amazing job in rebuilding it. Go to Westerplatte which was ground zero for World War II, discover the Museum of the Second World War, which also has a children’s section, or go on a tall ship adventure in the Motlawa River.

For the best city views, climb the Clock Tower of the Main Town Hall. The unique houses of Gdansk Old Town almost look like doll houses from above. From there you also get a good bird’s eye view of St. Mary’s Church, which is the city’s most prominent building and one of the largest brick churches in the world.

Gdansk, like the rest of Poland, is extremely cheap and you can find deals on luxury hotels for hardly nothing . To save money on transportation, take the bus or train, or download the app FreeNow which is a cheaper version of Uber.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

24. Montenegro

Montenegro is still relatively hidden gem on the Adriatic Sea coast. The country is perfect for families looking for a relaxing or even adventurous spring break vacation on a budget.

Montenegro has a wide ray of different attractions from spectacular mountains, crystal clear lakes to all-inclusive beach resorts, waterparks and stunning beaches. You can explore 2,500-year-old Budva old town or get lost in Kotor’s Old Town which was built like a maze. You can even take your kids on a fun miniature train ride to Lipa Cave.

Montenegro has the coastal beauty of neighboring Croatia but remains more affordable for family vacations. It’s surprisingly easy to stay under budget when accommodation and attractions cost half of the price of what you’d expect to pay.

For the even more budget-friendly trip, choose self-catering accommodations. If you want to visit Kotor Bay, staying further away from the town center will save you money, as well as choosing nearby villages rather than the most popular spots in the country.

Recommended by Leta of Blogger & Owner of The Nerdy Me

25. Alsace, France (an underrated region for spring break destination for families)

Alsace, in Eastern France, is a good destination for spring break family vacation. This region, at the border with Germany has picturesque villages, beautiful forests, intriguing medieval fortresses, and 2 exciting cities great for sightseeing.

Alsace is cheaper than Paris and other French regions, so you are set for a fun and affordable vacation in France.

Strasburg is a beautiful city, great for a couple of days sightseeing. From Strasbourg, we recommend hiring a car to explore the rest of the region on an  Alsace road trip . The distances are short, and you can explore many different places in a short time.

While in Alsace, don’t miss the local cuisine with typical dishes like choucroute or tarte flambée (a kind of local pizza). The best places to eat are the winstubs, a popular and affordable restaurant typical of Alsace serving delicious local food in a very traditional atmosphere.

Alsace’s capital is Strasbourg, a city well connected to Paris and other European cities by train. Enjoy the ride around European destinations by packing the right train travel essentials for your family. What an adventure over spring break!

Recommended by Elisa of France Bucket List

26. Himara, Albania

Just a ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and in between Montenegro and Greece, Albania is an extremely affordable spring destination for families. Being in such proximity, Albania has strong Greek and Italian influences, but without the high costs.

In Albania, there is one of the best  hidden gems in Europe ; a small, quaint village along the Ionian Sea with the beautiful Ceraunian Mountain range behind it. The charming beachside town of Himara is 2 hours north of Saranda when driving along the Albanian Riviera.

Himara is perfect for a spring break trip since it has mild Mediterranean weather and even boasts of 300 days of sunshine a year. Even though accommodation is already considered affordable, going for spring break will be during the off-season making prices even more affordable.

Families can have a peaceful and relaxing getaway in Himara. They can enjoy authentic Italian pizza or fresh, locally caught fish at affordable prices in Albanian LEK and there are plenty of family activities available. Try doing a boat tour or kayaking to secret sea caves, hiking to nearby castles and forts, and visiting secluded beaches.

Recommended by Maria of Maptrekking

27. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is the perfect spring break destination with kids. It’s much cheaper than its immediate neighbors, and some of the prices there are the cheapest in Europe.

It’s perfect for spring when the cafes along the river open for hot chocolate and you can sit with a blanket over your knees and watch the world go by. It’s close enough to Venice to get some of the cheap flights in to Italy and drive over or get the coach between the cities.

Once there, kids will love the House of Illusions, or take a trip up to the castle for spectacular views. If you’re planning a  Slovenia family holiday   the hotels in Ljubljana are really well priced and it’s easy to find one with a pool or other child friendly amenities.

Take a boat trip through the center to really appreciate the beautiful architecture and then head to a nearby thermal pool for an afternoon of fun in the warm waters. Ljubljana is relatively undiscovered and it’s a European city that has so much charm.

Recommended by Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Caribbean: spring break ideas for families on a budget

Gah! The gorgeous Caribbean is up next on this list of best family destinations for spring break. Known for it’s affordability, there are lots of options within the Caribbean for a family vacation.

Here are a few favorites…

28. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

When looking for affordable spring break trips for the family, Mexico offers some unique destinations that you simply can’t ignore. Avoid all the spring break party crowd by heading over to Playa del Carmen and staying at one of the family-friendly resorts.

The beaches are beautiful and you can cut costs by staying in one of the many budget hotels . Or find a self-service apartment that will allow you to cook and eat out at much cheaper prices than you would find in places like Cancun’s hotel zone.

From Playa del Carmen, you can easily access the plethora of  things to do in the Rivieria Maya  region, which in many cases, are perfectly suited to family trips. One place to visit is the Xaman-Ha Bird Sanctuary which is a great place to learn about local wildlife and is free for children.

Playa del Carmen has something for any family who is looking for an entertaining beach getaway.  

Recommended by Daniel of Layer Culture

29. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the perfect spot for spring break family vacations, as it’s one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean! If your family is up for unforgettable adventures, pristine beaches and lots of fun in the unspoiled nature, consider renting a car and plan a road-trip in the Dominican Republic .

Book an affordable apartment within walking distance to the beach (for as low as $60 per night for a family of 4) on the Samaná peninsula. It’s one of the most beautiful regions in the Dominican Republic and guarantees you’ll be away from all the spring break crowd.

Furthermore, you can count on stunning and authentic kid-friendly experiences, such as exploring waterfalls, horseback riding along the beach or ziplining over the tropical vegetation.

If you shop at local markets and buy regional produce, you can lower your travel costs significantly, as most food prices are at least half or less compared to the United States. If you feel that you just want to relax and get pampered, you can consider an all-inclusive resort instead. While Punta Cana has the biggest selection of resorts, it might be worth considering Puerto Plata on the north coast.

Those resorts are a bit cheaper than Punta Cana, starting from $130 per night for a family of 4 including an all-inclusive meal plan. Additionally, you will avoid the spring break crowds of Punta Cana, which tend to be predominant in some of the resorts during this time.

If you don’t find flights to Puerto Plata, consider flying into Santiago, which is just an hour away from Puerto Plata.

Recommended by Christian of Punta Cana Travel Blog

30. Belize (another favorite on this list of cheap spring break trips for families)

One of the best spring break destinations for families has absolutely got to be Belize! It’s easy to keep it low cost while spending a week in this tropical paradise. Here’s an exact cost breakdown on how to do Belize on a budget .

If staying on the beach is a must, consider staying in Placencia, San Pedro or Caye Caulker. However if your family is up for adventure, staying further inland in San Ignacio might be right for you.

From visiting ancient ruins to learning how to make chocolate like the Mayans to taking a snorkeling trip to a private island, there’s plenty of things to do in Belize for your family.

Your family will love visiting this culturally-rich country!

More of the best spring break destinations for families

There’s still a few left on this list! Here are a few more spots around the globe that are worth considering for your family!

31. Guatemala

Popular with backpackers and – surprisingly – cruise ships, Guatemala remains relatively undiscovered by families. Which is shame, because this Central American country is the perfect place for a family spring break vacation on a budget.

This is a country filled with mysterious ruins, colourful Colonial cities, lots of volcanoes and even more adventures. Start your holiday in Antigua, pretty town filled with cobblestones streets and painted homes. Affordable hotels are plentiful but you can also rent a house here and many people do, choosing to stay for weeks, or even months, to learn Spanish.

Other places you must visit include Chichicastenango. Located in the Guatemalan highlands, this towns is famous for its weekly market, one of the largest and busiest in Central America.

Lake Antigua, once described as “the most beautiful lake in the world” is another one of the country’s highlights. There are lots of towns dotted around the lake, many of them offering budget accommodation and food options.

Guatemala’s star attraction, however, is Tikal. You can drive from Guatemala City to Flores, the gateway to Tikal, by car. This route takes around 8 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Guatemala City to Flores, although this will be more expensive. However, you choose to travel, however, don’t miss these most magical of Mayan ruins when visiting  Guatemala with kids .

Recommended by Katja of Globe Totting

Related read: Visiting Tikal: Everything You Need to Know About the Tikal Ruins

32. Costa Rica

A super fun, not to mention inexpensive spring break trip for families is Costa Rica! This Central American country is a few hours flight from Southern US locations (like Miami, Houston or Los Angeles).

Pro tip: set up a flight alert from your home airport to San Jose, Costa Rica on Google Flights to find the best deals. If you can be a little flexible with your dates (like a Wednesday – Wednesday trip), you’ll find better pricing.

Despite being a small footprint, Costa Rica has many regions to visit. If you want resorts, beaches and shopping, head to Tamarindo. For outdoor adventures and nature, you’ll want to explore all the best things to do in Monteverde .

My family love the beach, so we’re all about the best beaches in Manuel Antonio . This region also offers abundant wildlife and cheap activities like visiting the Manuel Antonio National Park, bringing your own snorkeling gear and snorkeling off the beach, and visiting waterfalls.

To further reduce your cost and make this an amazing cheap spring break trip, rent a vacation property that includes a kitchen and make some or most of your meals. For families, it’s cheaper to rent a car than to get transfers from the airport to different areas.

Costa Rica is one of the best family destinations for spring break, and one you’ll want to check flights prices ASAP!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

33. Ecuador (unexpected and cheap family spring break trip)

While many travelers are initially drawn to visit Ecuador because of the Galapagos, a notoriously expensive destination, mainland Ecuador is extremely budget friendly, with plenty of natural beauty and adventure activities perfect for a family getaway.

So skip the Galapagos and visit the mainland Ecuador if you’re looking for spring break ideas for families on a budget!

Ecuador’s major cities perched in the Andes like Quito offer breathtaking views and plenty to see and do for all ages. A favorite of the top things to do in Quito includes the Teleferico cable car that whisks visitors to the top of a dormant volcano for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding valleys.

A visit to Ecuador’s beautiful jungle, just a few hours north of Quito, is the perfect affordable and memorable getaway for parents and adults alike.   Visit Mindo, Ecuador  in the cloud forest for plenty of inexpensive adventure travel experiences perfect for children.

There are countless ways for children to meet wildlife in the jungle, including visiting a butterfly sanctuary and watching hummingbirds. A popular tubing excursion along a gentle bubbling river is both exhilarating enough for children to enjoy and relaxing and safe enough for parents as well.

Easy waterfall hikes to swimming holes are another way for families to enjoy Ecuador’s natural beauty together.  

To the south of Quito is one of the most gorgeous landscapes, and a hike to get there! The Quilotoa Lake hike and Quilotoa Loop is one of the most incredible adventures you can have as a family. Adventurous souls only!

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana

34. New Zealand

New Zealand is the perfect place to visit with a family. It’s safe, exciting, and contrary to popular belief, super affordable! Plus, during spring break it’s the end of summer in New Zealand which makes for the perfect weather for exploring the great outdoors. 

The best way to travel New Zealand on a budget is to go on a family road trip in a motorhome. This way, you can camp for free (or very cheap) each night as well as cook your own meals. Simply rent a motorhome and start your journey from where you fly in (Auckland is the cheapest destination to fly to in NZ.) Avoiding domestic flights will be a big budget saver as well! 

On top of that, the best activities in New Zealand are free too. National Parks are free to visit and all of the most amazing places are natural attractions.

Even in tourist hot-spots like  Queenstown, there are tons of things to do  and many of them are family-friendly and budget-friendly. Stick to hikes, waterfalls, lakes, natural hot pools, beaches, and you’ll be sure to have one of the best spring break vacations possible! 

Recommended by Bailey of My Queenstown Diary

35. Cape Town, South Africa

If this is your  first time travelling in South Africa , you’ll be surprised by how friendly and accessible Cape Town is, especially if you’re from an English-speaking country. Spring break is a particularly good time to visit for families , as the weather is wonderful, but the summer rush (Dec-Feb in the southern hemisphere) has largely died down.

Visit the touristy V&A Waterfront for great views of the harbour and Table Mountain, then make your way to Sea Point or Camps Bay for more affordable meals and beautiful views.

Going up Table Mountain is a must. Take the cable car or, if you have older children, hike up the mountain instead. The views at the top are spectacular.

Hire a car to get the most out of Cape Town. The drive over Chapman’s Peak is stunning!

Go to Cape Point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, stopping for a picnic on the way. Keep out for baboons – they have a nasty habit of trying to steal your food. Also visit Boulders Beach, a sheltered cove with huge rocks and a large colony of penguins.

Other activities of note are the beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens , the Two Oceans Aquarium, and visiting the fishing villages and beaches near False Bay.

Recommended by Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

Cheap spring break trips for families

Alright so which one will it be? Which is the perfect and affordable spring break vacation spot for your family? From national parks to beaches, hiking adventures and historic cities, this list has something for every vacation style.

Let’s recap those options again, in a quick list!

Best family destinations for spring break

• Phoenix, Arizona
• Utah National Parks road trip
• Estes Park, Colorado
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Sedona, Arizona
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Omaha, Nebraska
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Hudson Valley, New York
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Gulf Shores, Alabama
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Koh Tao, Thailand
• Cebu, Philippines
• Bali, Indonesia
• Penang, Malaysia
• Athens, Greece
• Rome, Italy
• Gdansk, Poland
• Alsace, France
• Himara, Albania
• Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Playa del Carmen, Mexico
• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Cape Town, South Africa

I hope this list has been helpful for you as you plan your spring break getaway. And maybe you’ve even found inspiration for your travel bucket list, too! 🙂

Related content you won’t want to miss: 21 Best Beaches for Families in Florida You’ll Love 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 21 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in May You Can’t Miss 21 Stunning and Affordable Island Vacations 26 Gulf Coast Beaches You Can’t Miss 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the US 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Spots You’ll Love

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Lisa | Waves and Cobblestones

Sunday 8th of January 2023

So many bucket list travel destinations! It's great to se budget-friendly options and tips for visiting these great locations!

Monday 9th of January 2023

Thanks Lisa, it was a fun list to put together. Gotta love a budget-friendly getaway :)

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Love this guide to affordable spring break destinations for families. We especially loved our family vacation to Arizona.

Oh nice! Arizona is so awesome over spring break. :)

My husband and I got married in March and spent our honeymoon in Playa del Carmen, it was wonderful! It wasn't too much of a crazy party area like Cancun but it was lively enough, and we spent hours swimming in the beach! And I loved how affordable everything was!

Yayyyy! That's AWESOME Hannah! Sounds like a fabulous honeymoon! Glad you found it budget-friendly, too. :)

Thursday 5th of January 2023

Fabulous list - and so great to see Europe on there too! You've certainly given me some ideas - would love to visit Alsace one day!!

So happy you found inspiration here. Europe is a fabulous destination for spring break, that's for sure!

Wednesday 4th of January 2023

I live in AZ and can say that yes, Spring Break is a great time to visit Phoenix and Sedona. Utah would also be lovely then too. Loved this very thorough and informative list! Thanks for sharing. Saving for future travel planning!

Oh that's awesome Yvonne! Glad you found it helpful and agree that Arizona is a great spot for a spring getaway :)

Protect Your Trip »

Best inexpensive spring break destinations.

Spring breakers don't need to shell out a fortune to spend a week enjoying life in the sunshine. To get you all of the fun without all of the fees, U.S. News carefully considered lodging costs, atmosphere, free things to do and traveler votes (among other factors) to bring you the best inexpensive spring break destinations. Check out the full list below and vote for your favorites to help determine next year's ranking.

Panama City Beach

New orleans, south padre island, playa del carmen, outer banks, daytona beach, grand canyon national park, myrtle beach.

If you're willing to make the drive from Miami (you'll score cheaper flights into this airport), Key West can be an affordable place to spend spring break. This small island in the Florida Keys is known for its quirky residents and premier snorkeling opportunities. While you'll find plenty of spots for partying along rowdy Duval Street, you can also soak up some culture at the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. For free attractions, check out the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery and the Southernmost Point. Plus, Key West offers several budget-friendly vacation rentals, so you can save your cash for bars and boat tours.

Panama City Beach – or PCB, for short – is a tried-and-true Florida spring break location that is sure to please the masses. Scope out a spot across the town's 27 miles of white sand beaches to sunbathe, play volleyball or scan the horizon for bottlenose dolphins. You'll no doubt have to contend with hordes of college students while on your trip, but hotel prices are reasonable if you book your accommodations in advance. Just note: This town in northwest Florida bans alcohol consumption on the beach during March, so you'll have to enjoy your adult beverages elsewhere.

New Orleans is a prime spring break destination for those seeking epic nightlife mixed with tasty Southern comfort food . While airfare can be a bit expensive, hotel and vacation rental deals are available – especially if you stay a bit removed from the action of the French Quarter. Check the calendar to see when Mardi Gras occurs (the celebration falls 47 days before Easter every year) and try to plan your vacation around it. The popular event, which sometimes takes place during spring break season in early March, often causes airfare and lodging expenses to increase.

With hotels offering nightly rates around $200 or less and DJs and celebrities holding court at nightclubs, South Padre Island, Texas, is a hot spring break destination for college students. This South Texas locale is only about 30 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, meaning you'll get to enjoy warm weather without having to leave the country (average daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s in spring). As an added bonus, the island offers a free public shuttle system, so budget-conscious travelers won't have to worry about spending money on a rental car.

Situated on Mexico's eastern coast about 40 miles south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers multiple stretches of white sand, a lively nightlife scene and average highs in the mid-80s, making it perfect for a fun-filled yet relaxing spring break trip. Though you may have to deal with some crowds since it's such a popular destination come spring, you will at least be safe from the dreaded hurricane season, which takes place from June to September. Search for specific spring break all-inclusive resort deals for the best value lodging rates.

With sprawling beaches and ample low-cost accommodation options, the Outer Banks in North Carolina is an attractive spring break vacation spot. The limited hotel choices are all pretty affordable, and this area is known for its large vacation rental homes – including some that can accommodate 15 or more guests – which makes it a cost-effective option for large groups. Spring weather here varies: While it's often sunny, average temperatures can be anywhere in the 60s to low 70s. Cheap and fun activities on this chain of family-friendly barrier islands include mini-golf, fishing and relaxing on the beach.

Daytona Beach's spring break draw has to do with its ample amount of hotels (position yourself away from the shore or a few miles outside of the city for the best deals), its trademark Florida weather (which climbs into the 70s and 80s throughout March and April) and its 23 miles of beaches. Though you'll miss the city's main event, the Daytona 500, you can still take part in some smaller, more affordable racing-themed festivities, including several that are part of Daytona Bike Week, which takes place from early to mid-March.

As the first (and longest) island of the Florida Keys, Key Largo appeals to spring breakers who want a getaway that feels off-the-beaten-track without having to travel too far to get it. Sitting less than 60 miles south of Miami (don't miss a stop at Everglades National Park along the way), this idyllic island enjoys little precipitation and balmy temperatures in the 70s in March, perfect for exploring John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on a snorkeling excursion. While March's influx of tourists drives up hotel prices, you can save some coin by splitting the room rate with friends and booking your accommodations far in advance.

For West Coast spring breakers looking to relax in the sun without paying an arm and a leg for airfare, San Diego is a great place to vacation on a budget. It's home to 70 miles of beaches , gorgeous parks and pockets of nightlife, plus scenic neighborhoods like La Jolla and Seaport Village that are free to explore. March and April weather is mild (average temperatures hover in the 60s during the day), but hotel rates won't yet be at their priciest. You'll also get to experience Instagram-worthy flower fields blooming all across the city, from Balboa Park to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Outdoor lovers who are looking for an alternative spring break experience can plan a budget-friendly trip to Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park. Accommodations here are cheap: You can camp for a nominal fee or rent an affordable cabin or recreational vehicle that can accommodate a large group. However, you'll want to book well in advance for this popular time of year. Spring is also an excellent time to see this impressive natural wonder thanks to comfortable daytime temps that fluctuate between the 50s and 70s in March and April. Visitors can enjoy everything from hiking to biking around the South Rim.

Thanks to its plethora of affordable oceanfront hotels, 60 miles of beaches (though the ocean will still be too chilly for swimming) and proximity to many major East Coast cities, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. From lively nightlife options to parties hosted by big-name DJs, this South Carolina town offers the classic spring break experience. If you're traveling with a large group, consider renting a house for more space and a full-size kitchen. Use the money you save on accommodations to purchase a Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach day pass or catch a show at the Alabama Theatre.

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15 Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations for Travelers on a Budget [2024]

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Table of Contents

How to make spring break more affordable, 1. best budget spring break destination for nature buffs: great smoky mountains national park (tennessee and north carolina), 2. best budget spring break destination that’s easily accessible: south padre island, texas, 3. best budget spring break destination for sun seekers: tampa, florida, 4. best budget spring break destination for all-inclusive resorts: punta cana, dominican republic, 5. best budget spring break destination for explorers: guatemala, 6. best budget spring break destination for college kids: lake havasu, arizona, 7. best budget spring destination for culture: lisbon, portugal, 8. best budget spring break destination for couples: savannah, georgia, 9. best budget spring break destination for adventurers: marrakech, morocco, 10. best budget spring break destination for off-season deals: greece, 11. best budget spring break destination for golfers and activities: myrtle beach, south carolina, 12. best budget spring break destination for beach buffs: gulf shores, alabama, 13. best budget spring break destination for foodies: mexico city, mexico, 14. best budget spring break destination for wildlife enthusiasts: florida keys, 15. best budget spring break destination for families: new orleans, final thoughts.

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Everybody wants to go on spring break. But travel is expensive, especially to peak spring break destinations like Miami or Cancún or during peak dates like Easter.

If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy a spring vacation, there are some destinations out there that are more affordable than others, from free U.S. national parks to emerging countries to destinations that have many options for spending your points and miles (in the case that you’re points rich but cash poor).

Here are the best affordable spring break destinations to consider in 2024.

Before we get into where to go, consider these spring break budgeting tips that run beyond just choosing an affordable destination.

• Dip into your points and miles stash. Using points and miles for airfare and hotels frees up cash for other travel activities such as tours and dining.
• Avoid a spring break vacation over Easter (March 31 ) . If you avoid the peak Easter dates, you may find cheaper airfare or hotels.
• Consider traveling at the beginning or end of the spring season. A trip at the end of February or early May can be more cost-effective, depending on the destination.
• Consider all-inclusives or home rentals. These may be more affordable than staying at a hotel and eating out.

Use the right credit card to earn the most points on travel. Even if you’re paying cash, you can maximize points earnings to save on your next trip. Cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® or American Express ®  Green Card allow you to earn either 3x Chase Ultimate Reward points or 3x Amex Membership Reward points per dollar spent on both travel and dining.

There are more than 60 U.S. national parks , but less than 20 of them are free . Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the parks that doesn’t charge an entrance fee , making access for large families or various carloads easy. Just know you have to pay a parking fee of $5 per day or $15 per week.

The Great Smoky Mountains are a spectacular place for a road trip, especially for those who live in neighboring states. With endless scenic drives and many vantage points perfect for snapping that iconic shot, those who want to enjoy nature but not necessarily get out in it will love a trip to this destination. Likewise, if you want to get out into the wilderness and camp, fees start at just $30, with cabin fees starting at $200 .

This affordable spring break destination is within the continental U.S. and is close to 2 different airports: Valley International Airport (HRL) and the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) . South Padre Island is also just a road trip away from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin and not too far from Corpus Christi Airport (CRP) and Padre Island National Seashore .

Although South Padre Island has a reputation for being a party area and cheap spring break destination for college students (who may or may not enjoy the laid-back scene at the newly opened Margaritaville Beach Resort ), there are quieter parts of the island that welcome families who are on the hunt for affordable activities and warm weather . Half of the area’s 24 beaches are even handicapped-accessible with Mobi-mats . Check out nature sites like the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, a marshland where you can spot pelicans and other avifauna, and Andy Bowie Park , a coastal recreational area.

If you’re jonesing for that Florida sunshine but Miami is out of your budget, Tampa is your destination. It’s recently been known as a hot spot for people moving there during the pandemic , but the same things that make it a great (and affordable) place to live also make it a great (and affordable) place to vacation. You’ll find plenty of free activities, like strolling the Tampa Riverwalk, viewing manatees at Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center , or lounging on the soft sands of Clearwater Beach . And if Disney is too expensive, you could always opt for Busch Gardens in Tampa instead .

And you can still have a cool hotel stay without overspending. For example, prices for a stay at The Tampa EDITION are nearly $300 less on random April dates than The Miami EDITION . If you do have a stash of points, Tampa’s larger hotel chains also have lower budget options — think Sheraton, La Quinta Inn, Aloft, DoubleTree, and Holiday Inn (as well as fancier options like Westin and Grand Hyatt) if you’re looking for a deal in either cash or points.

If you want everything — accommodation, meals, and activities — all in 1 easy package, Punta Cana is an excellent destination for spring break all-inclusive resorts for all budgets . From more affordable hotels to luxury resorts to several different all-inclusive hotels you can book using points, travelers looking for a deal on fun in the sun should head to this Caribbean hot spot. If you’re flexible on your spring travel dates, you may be able to find an all-inclusive resort option for less than $200 to 250 per night (double occupancy) .

A cheap spring break destination for families, many Punta Cana all-inclusive hotels, such as the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana and the Finest Punta Cana , offer features like on-site water parks or kids’ clubs, while others are adults-only — an ideal, inexpensive spring break for college students or couples.

Guatemala is filled with exciting adventures. Start by discovering the peaceful, mystical shores of Lake Atitlán , which rests in a volcanic crater surrounded by Maya villages and the Guatemalan highlands. Visit colorful, welcoming, historic towns like Chichicastenango and Antigua , where you can easily save money by staying in local guesthouses and eating street food like tamales, pupusas, and tasty stews.

Hikers should trek up the active Pacaya or Acatenango volcanos, while those in the market for a little soul-searching should head to hippie village San Marcos for cacao, temezcal, or other wellness ceremonies and rituals. Meanwhile, outdoorsy types can dip into Semuc Champey , a stunning set of turquoise pools that are part of a limestone bridge.

An easy drive for students out west, Lake Havasu is a cheap and warm spring break destination for college students, young adults, or, yes, even families (hear us out) . While college kids can hang out on boats, enjoying the lake’s party atmosphere (12-person party boat rentals start at about $100 per hour, meaning each young adult will pay less than $50 for a 5-hour booze cruise ), families can head to more tranquil beaches and roam off-road trails.

In the evening, college kids can enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere. Those looking for something quieter or more affordable should camp — beachfront camping is available year-round and starts at $40 per night, and cabin pricing starts at $119 per night.

One of Europe’s most affordable capitals, Lisbon is one of the best cheap international spring break destinations . You’ll likely have bright, sunny, and mild weather in Portugal in spring, especially if you head over in April. While Lisbon offers historic attractions and monuments like the Fado Museum and São Jorge Castle , visitors can have budget experiences like enjoying the city’s red-roofed vistas from different hilltop viewpoints (we like Santa Catarina), getting lost in the winding streets of the Alfama distinct , riding vintage trams around the city, or admiring the unique and colorful Portuguese tile that covers nearly every building.

Lisbon’s most famous pastry, pastéis de nata , consists of a flaky crust filled with egg custard and costs less than a couple of euros each. You wouldn’t be the first traveler on a budget to eat a couple of them for lunch instead of a more traditional meal.

TAP Portugal is the national air carrier of Portugal, and rewards like Capital One miles transfer to TAP’s Miles&Go program. While there are many ways to earn lots of TAP miles , we recommend getting the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , earning miles, and transferring them at a 1:1 ratio. Redeem TAP miles to fly between U.S. hubs and destinations like Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO).

Savannah is the perfect destination for an adult spring break . The city’s serene, leafy corners, Southern charm, and haunted history make it the ideal destination to wander around hand-in-hand with a loved one, all while staying within your budget. Many destinations, such as the romantic, 30-acre Forsyth Park and the flowering Savannah Botanical Gardens , are free to enter . If you tire of exploring as a couple, you can always join a free walking tour of the historic center.

Tybee Island is also free to visit (though you have to pay for transportation and parking) and is about a 20-minute drive from central Savannah. Here, you can frolic on sandy beaches and explore the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum ($12 to enter).

Be ready for an assault on the senses as you traverse the labyrinth that is Marrakech’s souk. It’s completely free to admire the snake charmers, steaming food, and market wares in the chaotic Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Visitors looking for more adrenaline-pumping action can ride camels, drive ATVs, or trek through desert sands and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains , all for a relatively affordable price (3-hour quad tours run as low as $25 per person).

Lodging in Morocco can be done on the cheap , too. Forgo the luxury digs and consider a boutique riad or guesthouse. As there are so many, you can find comfortable ones tucked away in the bazaars that are actually incredibly charming, often for less than $100 per night. Many have rooftops or pools from which you can enjoy the warm Moroccan sunshine. And whatever you do, don’t let scammers convince you to buy overpriced carpets, which will take all the budget fun out of your spring break.

Those looking for a spring Greek getaway find the numerous islands full of sunshine without the tourists . A romantic trip to Santorini, a party vacation to Mykonos, or a family getaway to Rhodes can easily be hot and frustrating in the summer months, thanks to tourist crowds and sweltering temps. But spring is when the islands’ concessions open up (ferries often pick back up in March or April), and you can enjoy the beaches, attractions, and local Greek cuisine in a crowd-free and more affordable way.

And don’t discount some of Greece’s lesser-known islands and wonders. Destinations like the charming Peloponnese region and the Athens Riviera are popular among locals but not often frequented by tourists. Islands like Amorgos, Antiparos, Folegandros, Kythira, Milos, Symi, Tinos, and many others can often be cost-effective and more authentic , as opposed to the more popular islands.

The most expensive part of visiting Greece is probably airfare and hotel. Cut costs by using points and miles to fly to Greece .

Although spring is slightly more expensive than winter in Myrtle Beach for golfers, it’s the perfect time to putt along the area’s 90 golf courses with ideal weather — and it’s still significantly cheaper to visit in spring than summer.

If golfing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to do there, starting with the Myrtle Beach Marathon (March 2) and Run to the Sun Car Show (March 14-16).

April brings events like the Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival (April 5-7), the opening of Pelicans baseball (April 5), and the SOS Spring Safari Festival, where thousands of shag dancers descend on the city (April 18-28).

May offers a family-friendly concert series, special bike days, the Myrtle Beach Classic, a PGA Tour event (May 9-12), and the Blue Crab Festival (May 15-17) .

The budgeting secret to this Alabama spring break spot is visiting before Memorial Day when prices rise and the summer season begins. Although the water may be chilly for swimming in the spring months, beach bums can still affordably enjoy the sunshine and expansive sands.

The white sands and turquoise waters of Orange Beach are inviting to all types of travelers, whether you want to relax and sunbathe or enjoy water sports and beach activities.

Looking for cheap places to go in Florida for spring break? You can easily cross state lines and arrive at Perdido Key in a mere 15 minutes from Gulf Shores . The barrier island is rife with wildlife and home to a few state parks worth visiting to explore the wetlands and wildlife, such as Perdido Key State Park and Big Lagoon State Park.

Tacos, tacos, and tacos — need we say more? Street tacos may be enough to get you there, but visiting Mexico’s capital in spring offers so many more budget delights. The city is relatively affordable to visit year-round, but spring sees low humidity and rain, abundant sunshine, and you can expect the jacarandas to be in bloom, too .

A typical lunch at a restaurant or food stall in Mexico City shouldn’t cost you more than $10 , and there are lots of other free and affordable activities to do, too. Coveted cultural attractions like the Frida Kahlo Museum , the Palace of Fine Arts , and the Chapultepec Zoo don’t cost anything to enter, and you can always sign up for a free walking tour to understand more about the city’s culture and history while enjoying the sites.

The Florida Keys aren’t the cheapest spring break destinations on this list, but there are ways to save money when visiting. You’ll find many affordable home rentals (versus pricier hotels), and for those that want to enjoy the warm sunshine outdoors, there are lots of easy and enjoyable activities that go far beyond bumming around the beach, including 3 national parks: Biscayne , Dry Tortugas , and the Everglades .

Spring brings sightings of white herons, deer, and sea turtles (May is the start of nesting season). Visiting Key West National Wildlife Refuge is free , though you may want to pay to rent snorkel gear or kayaks to better explore the area. You can also wander through the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center free of charge — you may even catch a pelican feeding.

Flying into Miami (MIA) and driving to the Florida Keys may save you money. If you plan to spend some time in Miami, here are the top cheap Miami hotels and affordable activities to do when there.

New Orleans made the cut for our list of the best spring break destinations for families in the U.S., a destination that, at first glance, may appeal to partiers and foodies but also has lots to do for every type of traveler and every family member . You’ll never be shushed for the little ones making noise, as NOLA is lively and fun, with live musicians marching the streets and plenty of chatter.

Although we love the Louisiana Children’s Museum , if you don’t want to pay $18 per visitor, you can simply roam around the French Quarter and delight in all the action, or wander City Park in search of some greenery (and a more tranquil place to get beignets ). If there are any surprise rain showers (though spring is usually warm and sunny), pop into Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum for free.

From Guatemala to Alabama to Lisbon, there are many affordable spring break destinations to visit worldwide, especially if you think outside of the box from the more traditional Cancún and Orlando.

Just remember that you can make any spring break trip an affordable one by dipping into that stash of points and miles, which can help you score plane tickets and hotels for (almost) free.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the American Express ® Green Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest place to go on spring break.

Any place can be cheap if you use your points and miles to save on hotels and flights. But generally speaking, destinations like U.S. national parks, New Orleans, the Florida Keys, Myrtle Beach, and even international hubs like Mexico City, Punta Cana, or Lisbon can make for affordable spring break getaways.

Where do most Americans go on spring break?

Many Americans in search of sunny, warm weather head to Florida or Mexico for spring break. According to our research, some of the most searched spring break destinations are Cancún, Montego Bay, the Outer Banks, Punta Cana, Puerto Vallarta, and Saint Thomas.

What is the cheapest day to fly on spring break?

In most cases, days like Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays are the cheapest days to fly. When it comes to taking a spring break vacation, avoid traveling on peak dates such as around the Easter holiday, when flight prices are often higher.

How can I save money on spring break travel?

Save money on spring break by comparing the cost of home rentals and hotels, choosing a place that’s affordable and a good fit for you and your travel companions. Be flexible when it comes to dates, avoiding Easter and other peak spring travel moments. Picking an affordable destination from this list means your money will go further. And always dig through your points and miles stash to see if or when it can help you save money.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

22 Spring Break Ideas for Families on a Budget – Kid Friendly!

Spring break is a time for many families to go on out-of-town trips because you have more time to spend with the kids.

But this doesn’t mean you must spend lots of money to enjoy yourselves.

There are many spring break ideas for families on a budget that are pleasant and memorable.

As a travel writer and parent, I’ve taken my kids around the country to experience what different cities have to offer.

This article compiles some of our favorite places with the recommended activities of other vacationers. 

With some experience and research, I aim to help you choose which budget-friendly activities best fit your family.

To make things easier for you, I also rated each vacation destination based on its affordability, kid-friendly activities, safety, accommodation options, and ease of access. 

So start planning by checking out my recommendations below for money-saving things to do during spring break.

Spring Break Ideas For Families On A Budget Compared

It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money to have a fun and memorable spring break. 

For your reference, here’s a quick summary of our top picks for a budget-friendly vacation.

Editor’s Choice

Cocoa Beach, FL

If you are looking for some relaxed, cheap family getaway in April, the relaxed coastal surf town Cocoa Beach would be ideal.

• Affordability:  4.5/5
• Kid-friendly Activities: 4.5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 4.5/5
• Ease of Access: 4.5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Mont Tremblant, Canada

If you are in the mood for skiing, you will find that Mont Tremblant in Quebec offers an affordable spring break package.

• Affordability:  4/5
• Kid-friendly Activities: 3.5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5
• Ease of Access: 3.5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Blowing Rock, NC

Tucked away in western North Carolina, Blowing Rock is a mountain town with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and indulge in outdoor activities.short_description

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 3/5
• Ease of Access: 3/5

Here are the top 22 budget-friendly spring break ideas for families.

1. Cocoa Beach, FL (Editor’s Choice)

Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (321) 459-2200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Many hotels and inns line the beach
• Varied activities on and near the beach
• Seaweed can be floating in the waters

An iconic community to the east of Orlando on Florida’s Atlantic coast, it is lined with several budget hotels and family-run inns where you can find a room to suit your pocket.

You can go boogie boarding on the beach or ride to Port Canaveral on the Cocoa Beach Trolley, which doesn’t cost much and it is free for children under 5.

There is life beyond the sea too.

Don’t miss the wildlife drive at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Explore the pier, the Museum of Dinosaurs, Ancient Cultures, and other spots in the town.

Recommended Hotel: Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort

Related: Things to Do in Cocoa Beach with Kids

Related: Best Hotels in Cocoa Beach

2. Mont Tremblant, Canada

Mont Tremblant, Canada (819) 425-2434 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Lots of accommodations near the slopes
• Different slopes to choose from 
• Line to the lifts can take long

At just a fraction of the price of the uber-expensive ski resort towns of Utah and Colorado, this family-friendly hill town offers a wide range of slopes for all levels.

There is even a half-pipe for snowboarders in case you have any in your family.

You can make time for other activities such as ice skating, ice fishing, dog sledding, fat biking, and snowshoeing, or take off on a day trip to Montreal .

For nature lovers, don’t miss the Bison Reserve for wildlife observation.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Quintessence

3. Blowing Rock, NC

Blowing Rock, NC (828) 295-4636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Beautiful, scenic views
• Well-kept trails 
• Not many other activities to do

Tucked away in western North Carolina, Blowing Rock is a mountain town with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and indulge in outdoor activities.

Sugar Mountain, just 15 miles west, is a small ski town with easy slopes.

It also has an ice skating rink open till March.

During warmer seasons, the Blue Ridge Parkway along which the town is located offers hiking trails.

Downtown Blowing Rock is a postcard town for a leisurely evening browsing for wares in independent shops and relishing the local food in the restaurants.

The little tykes will enjoy a trip down the Tweetsie Railroad or a visit to a petting zoo and other rides.

Recommended Hotel: Meadowbrook Inn

Also See: Things to Do in North Carolina with Kids North Carolina Family Vacations

4. Jamestown-Yorktown, VA

Jamestown, VA (757) 856-1250 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With museums, 17th-century reenactments, and other incredible attractions, Jamestown is an excellent alternative to Mont Tremblant and Blowing Rock. 

A great budget-friendly vacation idea is a visit to the historic town of Jamestown in Virginia which offers you the opportunity to have fun as you learn.

Explore the ruins of the first English settlement in all of North America, the Powhatan Indian village nearby, and go back in time by watching impressive re-enactments of the life of the people back then in a 17th-century fort.

For the keen history buffs, films and galleries give a deeper insight into early settlement and another one is dedicated to the American Revolution.

If you are visiting during March or April, you can also go on a kayaking excursion along the James River.

Recommended Hotel: The Colonies at Williamsburg

Related: Best Vacations in March in the USA

5. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (973) 317-8181 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the most budget-friendly vacation ideas is a trip to the Caribbean , where you will find all-inclusive hotels and stay options fitting your pocket in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

Karibo Punta Cana is another affordable option that gives you a free shuttle ride to the beach which is very close by.

The amazing beaches with white sands and clear blue water, plenty of water sports options, and tour operators providing catamaran excursions and snorkeling tours at reasonable prices will make this a dream holiday that is inexpensive.

Recommended Hotel: Karibo Punta Cana

Also See: Things to Do in Punta Cana with Kids Top All Inclusive Family Resorts in Punta Cana Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the Dominican Republic

6. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun, Mexico Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for great spring break deals, look no further.

Cancun in Mexico is a great place to visit any time of the year.

During the spring break, you may find the younger population crowding the hot spots, but families too find this a great cheap getaway in April.

You can choose from the several all-inclusive resorts offering decent deals.

From stunning beaches to ancient Mayan ruins and refreshing cenotes, as freshwater springs are called, you have something for every member of the family to look forward to.

You can go snorkeling or enjoy a round of mini-golf with the kids.

Recommended Hotel: Seadust Cancun Family Resort – All Inclusive

Also See: Things to do In Cancun with Kids

7. Kissimmee, FL

Kissimmee, FL (407) 569-4800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Just a stone’s throw away from Orlando, a trip to Kissimmee will ensure that you’ll be near many of the world-famous amusement parks in Florida.

But you won’t need to go out of town to have fun, as the city also has its own incredible attractions.

We explored off-the-beaten paths, enjoyed world-class dining, experienced local history and culture, and so much more.

During your visit, you can even go ziplining across treetops or floating on a hot air balloon.

You’ll surely have something to do even after finishing your trips to Disney World Resort and LEGOLAND® Florida Resort .

Recommended Hotel: LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

8. Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs, CA (760) 778-8418 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

While beaches are fun spring break ideas for families on a budget, desert landscapes, in contrast, are no less.

Palm Springs, a desert destination, offers several options for affordable fun where you can enjoy sunny skies and warm temperatures while dipping into cool pools.

The western landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park are iconic and close by.

One of the budget-friendly vacation ideas, you can spend quality family time playing mini-golf.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway gives great views of the desert landscape gradually transforming into the green vistas of the San Jacinto Mountains.

The one and two-bedroom villas at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge or the Palm Canyon Resort & Spa with affordable rooms, a kids’ game room, and a pool with waterslides are great for family getaways in spring.

Recommended Hotel: Palm Canyon Resort by Diamond Resorts

Related: Restaurants in Palm Springs, California

Also See: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families Things to Do in Palm Springs with Kids Best Hotels in Palm Springs

9. McCall, ID

McCall, ID (208) 634-7631 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

McCall is set in an idyllic location on the edge of Payette Lake and surrounded by the mountains of the Payette National Forest, 108 miles north of Boise.

A small ski-centric town, this is a fantastic and inexpensive family getaway in April.

In the nearby ski resort Brundage Mountain, children under 6 can ski for free and children under 18 can ride the lift at half the ticket costs.

To make up for the costs saved, make a booking in one of the finest hotels in the town: the Lakefront Shore Lodge.

Don’t miss out on other fun activities such as fat biking and snow biking.

Recommended Hotel: Brundage Bungalows

Related: Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

Related: Places to Eat in McCall, ID

10. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay, Jamaica Visit Website Open in Google Maps

For budget-friendly vacation ideas, nothing can beat Montego Bay , Jamaica, with its sunny beaches and several all-inclusive hotels that fit neatly into your budget plans.

One place that you can check out is the Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay which is ideally situated on a beautiful stretch of sand.

If you are traveling with children aged 19 and less, you can save further as the hotels let them stay free with you in your room!

Apart from the usual beach activities, a major attraction is a nighttime swim at Glistening Waters Luminous Lagoon.

An affordable boat ride near the town of Falmouth will take you to the bay that glows with bioluminescence.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay All Inclusive

Related: Places to Eat: Jamaica

Related: Best Hotels in Montego Bay

11. St. Pete Beach, FL

St. Pete Beach, FL (877) 352-3224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another fantastic spring break deal is a visit to this barrier island filled with old school motels and inexpensive accommodations near sugar sand beaches.

St. Pete Beach in West of Tampa is a long stretch filled with small beach communities, where you can get unadulterated fun enjoying the pleasant springtime weather.

Inland is no less interesting!

Your little ones can have a day watching the alligators at Sawgrass Lake Park, browsing in the quaint shops, with intermittent stops for a quick bite or a leisurely meal at restaurants facing the bay along the pedestrian-friendly downtown of St. Petersburg.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Zamora

Also See: Things to Do in Tampa With Kids Things to Do in St. Petersburg With Kids

12. Glenwood Springs, CO

Glenwood Springs, CO (970) 945-6580 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Unlike Aspen or Snowmass, which needs deep pockets for a week’s vacation, Glenwood Springs in Colorado offers just as much fun in the snow but at much lower costs.

You can enjoy a naturally-heated outdoor pool, a splash pad, and a new tube run at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, all at a reasonable price.

There is a freeskiing slope for children under 12 at Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort nearby.

What’s more, you will not have to waste time standing in long, snaking lift lines so common in the big resorts!

Check out nature’s wonder, the Hanging Lake, in Glenwood Canyon that’s worth a visit.

Recommended Hotel: Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

13. Lake Placid, NY

Lake Placid, NY (800) 447-5224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Placid in New York’s Adirondacks has much to offer if you are wondering where to go with the kids, and all at affordable rates!

There is the cute downtown that is an explorer’s haven, with many sights on offer.

For those who enjoy snowy activities, head out to Mirror Lake.

Go ice skating or discover the town’s Olympic history at the Lake Placid Olympic Center.

Your family can go skiing or bobsledding at Whiteface Mountain.

The lift tickets cost much less than in big resorts in the west, and by booking online in advance, you can save more!

Enjoy a quiet walk through the woods or paddle on the lake to create beautiful memories.

Recommended Hotel: The Whiteface Lodge

14. Greenville, SC

Greenville, SC (800) 717-0023 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Greenville in South Carolina is within driving distance from Atlanta or Charlotte offering several affordable activities for families.

Though there is an airport to Grenville, if your goal is an inexpensive vacation, you can find great deals in Atlanta or Charlotte.

Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown is surrounded by natural beauty and is the ideal location for a picnic.

The little ones will be enthralled at the Greenville Zoo where they can not only gaze at the animals but also take free learning safaris if you plan to be there on a Thursday.

For hiking, bass fishing, or just a swim in a warm spring, take a day trip to the stunning Lake Jocassee to the west of town.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard Greenville Downtown

Also See: Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids Things to Do in Charlotte with Kids

15. Lake Powell, AZ

Lake Powell, AZ (888) 896-3829 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are in the mood for an iconic western destination with grand American landscapes that offers budget-friendly vacation options, head out to Lake Powell.

It is within six hours of driving distance from the airports in Phoenix , Las Vegas , and Salt Lake City , so you can check out great deals.

You can rent a boat for the day to cruise down the manmade reservoir on the Colorado River, picnic by the shoreline, and spend time fishing with the kids.

Experience houseboats, available at prices suiting all budgets or spend a quiet day fishing.

Your little bundles of energy may also want to spend time hiking or rafting.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Page – Lake Powell

16. Blairsville, GA

Blairsville, GA (800) 847-4842 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Blairsville, tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia, two hours north of Atlanta, is a friendly mountain town offering fantastic, low-cost spring break trips for families.

The Appalachian Trail is great for a good hiking trip, or you can relish the beauty of Wolf Creek Falls.

If you are there in April or May, don’t miss the horseback riding adventures when the rhododendrons and mountain laurel are in bloom, giving picturesque views.

From hikes to whitewater rafting and a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, there is much you can do here.

Just a day spent with the family exploring the local wonders will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Recommended Hotel: Paradise Hills, Winery Resort & Spa

Related: Best Places to Visit in May (USA)

17. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You can fly cheap to Mexico City from most U.S. cities, making it a great start to your vacation.

The adventurous ride in the historic center of this city in the hop-on-hop-off Turibus is fun in itself.

You can visit Chapultepec Park, which is not only a green haven but also filled with playgrounds that the children will enjoy spending time in.

There is a newly renovated children’s museum called Papalote Museo del NIÑO, which will keep them engaged and happy.

And to complete this memorable and inexpensive vacation, take a canal boat tour in Xochimilco in the city’s southern reaches.

Recommended Hotel: Le Meridien Mexico City

Related: Best Hotels in Mexico

18. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City, Canada (877) 783-1608 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Head out to Canada’s Quebec province in Quebec City to experience French culture without having to cross the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the best budget-friendly vacation ideas, your family can have a great time just strolling around Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage center.

It is historic and can whet your appetite for more as you take a bite of crepe or sip a hot drink while reveling in the atmosphere.

A horse-drawn carriage ride is a great hit with the children.

If there is snow when you visit, you can also do cross-country skiing in the city’s lovely parks.

You can also make a trip to Montmorency Falls, which is 30 m higher than Niagara.

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Related: Best Restaurants in Quebec City

19. Beech Mountain, NC

Beech Mountain, NC (800) 468-5506 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

At 5,500 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Beech Mountain Resort is an inexpensive spring vacation destination as it receives about 84 inches of annual snowfall.

Lying two hours north of Asheville, the mountain offers several affordable hotel accommodations and slopes where your family and you can ski even in early March.

Tubing, biking, and sledding are some of the other fun ways your family can spend a great time together.

The 7-mile trail park in Emerald Outback is open to the public year-round.

For nature lovers, there is ample scope for birding.

Check out the events conducted here when you check-in.

Recommended Hotel: 4 Seasons at Beech Mountain

20. Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 385-4700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for some peace and calm, or keen on partying or just surfing waves, the 30 miles of Virginia Beach offers something for everyone, and all at a low cost.

It offers one of the best affordable spring break packages as you can have lots of fun without spending much.

Three miles of boardwalk offer families a beautiful view of the beach as they take a stroll.

Or they can have fun as they learn at Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, where they will get to know more about marine life such as sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

The many restaurants provide delicious stopovers, or you can indulge in bars and nightclubs.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Also See: Things to Do in Virginia Beach with Kids Best Hotels in Virginia Beach

21. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC (800) 523-3373 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Springtime in Hilton Head is pleasant and ideal for time out on the beaches.

The city becomes colorful with blooming azaleas dotting the landscape.

Activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, horseback rides, and golfing are some of the fun-filled activities you can indulge in during this cheap spring break trip with your family.

If you are a pro or a regular golfer, you might want to take advantage of the dozen championship golf courses.

You can also hike and bike through 50 miles of scenic trails.

There is something for the history buffs, art aficionado, or theatergoers.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Related: Restaurants: Hilton Head

Also See: Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids Best Hotels in Hilton Head

22. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico (787) 710-8280 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Enjoy the Caribbean beauty in Puerto Rico which is full of an exotic vibe with pristine sandy beaches and lush tropical rainforests, housing a large variety of wildlife.

Your little tykes can go looking for coqui­ frogs and lizards or colorful birds like the Puerto Rican parrot, which is one of the ten rarest birds on the planet, when here.

You can enjoy a swim in the bioluminescent bay or some cozy family time on secluded beaches.

It is also rich in history, culture, and delicious food .

So don’t miss exploring those.

Being in the U.S. commonwealth, you don’t need passports.

You can also get inexpensive flights from the mainland.

Recommended Hotel: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Also See: Things to Do in Puerto Rico with Kids Best Hotels in Puerto Rico

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Choosing where to go for spring break can be daunting with the many choices available to you.

But no worries. The best way to pick which place to go is to determine your family’s preferences.

Do you like swimming or skiing, somewhere hot or cold, etc.

From there, you’d be able to narrow down which ones you’d all like visit the most.

Cocoa Beach, FL is perfect for families who love the tropical vibes, as it features sunny weather and beautiful waterfronts.

Picture this: you’re sitting on the sand, warm sunshine kissing your skin, and kids splashing joyfully in the water.

But it can get crowded during peak seasons, so be ready to mingle.

Mont Tremblant, Canada is the place to be if your brood loves the cold, with its many snowy ski slopes and trails.

Just make sure to bundle up for the weather and be ready to slide down the mountains on your gear.

Blowing Rock, NC is for families who love exploring the great outdoors, with its well-maintained trails and stunning natural views.

But hiking and nature viewing are some of the limited activities here, and you may want to pack on-the-go activities for younger kids.

As an alternative to these three, you can check out Jamestown-Yorktown, VA, and immerse yourself in its rich history. 

Travel down memory lane and experience how the first English colony in America lived their lives. 

If you’re visiting during tourist season, get ready to deal with huge crowds, especially during weekends.  

How I Picked The Destinations

As a travel writer, I’ve visited many places and checked out what they can offer in terms of family-friendly activities.

I was able to list down what I loved and disliked about my experiences and ask my kids how it went for them as well.

With this, I was able to make a list of our own favorites.

Then, researching other spring break ideas on the internet led me to reviews that other vacationers have for places I haven’t visited yet.

Combining their recommendations with my own, I was able to curate a list of tried-and-tested spring break activities to help you choose which one you’d like the best.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Affordability: This criterion evaluates how budget-friendly the location is. Does it offer free activities? What about the accommodations and meals? Are they expensive? I ask myself these questions when rating affordability.   
• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to assess the availability and quality of kid-friendly activities in every destination. Does it offer amusement parks and interactive museums? Are there parks and beaches? These questions are essential when evaluating this criterion. 
• Safety: This criterion assesses the overall security of the destination. Does it have a low crime rate? Is it a generally safe environment? Will families feel comfortable and secure throughout their trip? I consider these factors to rate safety. 
• Accommodation Options: This is used to rate the accommodation options available in the area. Are there budget-friendly hotels? Does it have vacation rentals and homey options? Does it offer family-friendly options? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess accommodation options. 
• Ease of Access: I use this to evaluate the accessibility of every location. Does it have good transportation options? Is it located near airports or major highways? Are there restaurants and local attractions within walking distance? I ask these questions to evaluate the accessibility of the destination. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How can i make my family vacation cheap.

To make your family vacation more affordable, start by planning and booking in advance to secure the best deals on flights and accommodations, and consider traveling during off-peak times when prices are often lower. Also, plan to prepare some meals yourselves and prioritize free or low-cost activities, such as enjoying natural parks, walking city tours, or visiting museums on free admission days.

How Do I Plan A Spring Break Trip?

To plan a spring break trip, start by determining your budget and preferred destination, taking into consideration the interests of everyone in your group and the type of experience you want (relaxation, adventure, cultural exploration, etc). Then, book your accommodations, transportation, and any special activities or attractions in advance to ensure availability and often to secure better prices.

Spring break is a time for enjoyment, and different places could give you that with their unique and fun attractions.

You’ll just need to consider each destination’s pros and cons and which ones your family would like the best.

Once you’ve got that in the bag, you will surely enjoy a memorable vacation. 

My family and I liked going to Mont Tremblant, Blowing Rock, and Jamestown for all the one-of-a-kind activities they could give us; be it skiing, hiking, or sightseeing.

But out of all our spring break ideas for families on a budget, the best one remains to be Cocoa Beach. 

After all, who wouldn’t enjoy lounging your day away on a sunny beach?

As we strolled along the shore, tiny grains of sand tickled our feet, and the kids couldn’t resist the inviting waves. 

We spent a whole day building epic sandcastles and enjoying beachside picnics. 

The warmth of the Floridian sun, the serenity of the ocean, and the joy on my children’s faces are memories I’ll treasure forever. 

15 Cheap Spring Break Trips For Families That Won’t Bust the Budget

According to a 2023 study from the Family Travel Association, families spent around $6,750 a year on family travel in 2022, with 18 percent spending over $20,000. Thirty-one percent of those surveyed expect to spend even more on family travel in the next year. If you have done any travel research recently, you have probably found that it is hard to find destinations where the average family vacation cost is under $6,000 for seven nights.

I’ve done a lot of research and put together a list of cheap spring break trips for families, many of which we have visited over the years. These destinations are generally away from the fray of the college spring breakers and party vibes. These cheap spring break destinations are family-friendly and you can typically spend five to seven nights with a family of four (sharing one room or vacation rental) for under $5000-6000.

Of course, prices can vary depending on where you live and when you want to have your spring break. But one of my first steps in finding cheap spring break destinations is looking at budget airlines and where they fly that could make a good spring break vacation. There are many budget airlines that have routes between secondary cities, which can often be good budget family travel destinations. These include Breeze Airways, Allegiant, Spirit, and Frontier.

If these ideas don’t add up for your home base in the same way, looking at where budget airlines fly from your home city is another way to start brainstorming. Also, if you have been collecting airline miles or credit card points, it is a good first step to figure out where you can use those miles and where those airlines fly from your home city. Of course, airlines tend to know when local schools have spring break and raise rates to typical destinations like Florida or Southern California. If this is the case, it is time to consider a family road trip .

Cheap Spring Break Trips for Families

This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

Washington DC

Washington DC pops up on a lot of spring break lists and that is with good reason. First of all — cherry blossom season! It had been my dream to visit Washington DC during cherry blossom season and we finally made it happen over Easter weekend. We were able to book The Darcy Washington , a Curio Collection Hotel, with a king bed premiere studio suite with a pull out sofa for $182 per night for a Hilton Honors advance prepaid rate. But it normally goes for around $300, so you may need to shop around.

While Washington DC is possibly driveable and accessible by Amtrak, to save time for a shorter trip we decided to fly. If you can’t find cheap flights into Washington Reagan you can also fly into Baltimore-Washington International, which is a Southwest hub and often have cheaper fare sales.

Luckily, in Washington DC, so many of the museums are free, which makes it a great cheap spring break destination. You can also spend time walking through the Mall and around the Washington Monument. If you don’t want to spend a week in Washington DC, you can combine it into a northeast roadtrip .

• 3 day Washington D.C. itinerary
• East Coast road trips

Where to Stay:

• The Darcy Washington
• Lyle Washington
• Hyatt Place Washington DC/White House

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, Virginia makes a great spring break road trip from anywhere on the east coast. You can also find cheap flights on Breeze Airways into nearby Virginia Beach. It is a great destination for families that enjoy early American History, amusement parks, and outdoor activities.

You can find many affordable accommodation options from hotels to campgrounds. To save on attractions you can purchase the Historic Triangle Ticket that includes seven days of unlimited admission to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, and Historic Jamestown and Yorktown Battlefield.

When you are tired of history, you can have fun at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, visit the Virginia Living Museum, tour the Virginia Air and Space Museum, or explore the Fort Monroe National Monument. My daughter was about 10 when we visited this region, which I think is a great age for visiting Williamsburg and the surrounding area.

• Colonial Williamsburg in one day
• Jamestown Settlement vs. Historic Jamestown
• Things to do in Hampton Virginia
• Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony
• Holiday Inn & Suites Williamsburg Historic Gateway

Adventures on the Gorge, West Virginia

Enjoy spring break in one of the newest National Parks, New River Gorge in Lansing, West Virginia. Stay in a cozy family cabin or deluxe lodging at the Adventures on the Gorge resort. In the spring you can go white water rafting on the Lower New River, take a biplane canopy tour, or enjoy a guided hike in the park.

While you are there, you should also explore the national park and take a Bridgewalk across the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world, on the catwalk under the bridge (don’t worry, you will be harnessed in for this thrilling adventure!)

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island is one of the many islands just off the coast of Southern Georgia. This quiet island offers miles of wide, flat sand beaches, including the famous Driftwood Beach, home to giant branches that have washed ashore. In addition to the seven public beaches, Jekyll Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which is a popular stop for families.

Older kids will also enjoy biking around the island and staying up to do some star gazing at night. For a day trip, take the ferry from St. Mary’s over to Cumberland Island (reservations recommended) where you can explore wilderness areas, undeveloped beaches, historic sites, cultural ruins, and hopefully spy some wild horses. Jekyll Island is also not a far drive to Savannah, Georgia or Okefenokee Swamp Park, which is a National Wildlife Refuge. Take a boat tour and look for alligators or enjoy some of the hiking trails in the park.

I actually visited Jekyll Island in early December and it was nice to enjoy this beach community in the off season, but the weather would certainly be nicer during spring break!

• Guide to George Isles
• Guide to Jekyll Island beaches
• The Beachview Club
• Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island
• Courtyard by Marriott Jekyll Island

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Cocoa Beach is one of the highlights of Florida’s Space Coast, a 72-mile stretch of beach and family-friendly attractions. The marquis attraction is the Kennedy Space Center , which is a great place to spend a day with kids. The gorgeous Cocoa Beach, famous for its surfing culture, has a pier with family-friendly restaurants and attractions.

Nearby, you can also visit Brevard Zoo, where you can kayak and zip line through animal exhibits. Families also love kayaking with manatees or taking a thrilling alligator-seeking airboat ride. Maybe you will even be there for a rocket launch! At the very least, there are plenty of affordable family attractions like mini golf or the Andretti thrill park. While the beach area can have kitschy vibes, I still find this region a great, affordable, family spring break destination.

• Tips for taking the kids to Kennedy Space Center
• Unique animal encounters in Florida
• Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral
• Four Points by Sheraton Cocoa Beach

Kissimmee, Florida

If you are visiting the theme parks, a trip to Kissimmee can be extremely expensive, but there are plenty of things to do in the Orlando area that are much more budget friendly. Did you know you can kayak just a few miles from Disney? Get your thrills on an adventure ropes course? Take an airboat ride?

Of course with so many amazing vacation rental properties in this area, you don’t even need to leave your home? A few years ago we took a multigenerational trip to Kissimmee and rented a house in Encore Resorts that had a pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, game room, pool table, media room, and so much more.

• Off-the-beaten-path Orlando attractions
• Fun things to do in Orlando with teens
• Best water parks in Orlando
• Is Legoland Florida worth it?
• Margaritaville Resort Orlando
• vrbo vacation homes
• Holiday Inn Vacations at Orange Lake Resort

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores Orange Beach Alabama is a very family-friendly beach destination for spring break and they work hard to keep the partying spring breakers out. I’ve been there at the end of March/beginning of April and the weather was beautiful. As with all beach destinations, once you get there and pay for the hotel, it doesn’t cost much to enjoy some beach time!

Of course, one of the things that I love about Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is some of the fun things to do like sunset catamaran sails, dolphin cruises, kayaking and more. Plus, they have some of the best food around with fun venues like The Gulf, The Hangout, or Lulu’s. There are plenty of vacation rental options!

• Things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
• Places to eat in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
• Planning a girlfriend getaway to Gulf Shores
• vrbo vacation rentals
• Hampton Inn & Suites Orange Beach/Gulf Front
• Best Western Premier The Tides

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is one of my favorite beaches on the Gulf Coast with sugar soft white sand and calm, warm water. There are many family-friendly activity options like pirate cruises, dolphin tours, sunset festivals with free movies, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

In April, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival brings in professional sand sculptors to construct crazy cool sand creations. The 17-day festival includes free live music, fireworks, and sand sculpting classes, along with paid attractions on Pier 60.

• Family-friendly resorts in Clearwater, Florida
• Best Gulf Coast vacations
• How to plan a family vacation to Florida on a budget
• Fairfield Inn and Suites
• Pelican Pointe Hotel & Resort

Tempe, Arizona

Tempe makes a great spring break destination for families on a budget. You can usually find affordable flights into Phoenix Sky Harbor and while hotel prices might be a bit higher during the Cactus League baseball spring training, there are still deals to be found, some of which include kitchenettes and family suites.

In addition to taking in some baseball games at a fraction of the price of in-season games, you can kayak or rent paddle boats on Tempe Town Lake, e-bike around town, visit the Desert Botanical Gardens, and hike A mountain at sunrise or sunset. There are many great family-friendly restaurants in town and plenty of entertainment options at Tempe Marketplace. There are also day trips to hiking trails or stops on the Mesa Fresh Foodie Trail, like the Queen Creek Olive Mill.

While Tempe is a suburb of Phoenix, it really is its own city and, as the home of ASU, it feels very young and energetic. Visiting Tempe on a budget is much easier than some of the other destinations in this area, like Scottsdale.

• Things to do in Tempe
• Sonder at Mill Avenue
• Hyatt Place Tempe / Phoenix / University
• Towne Place Suites by Marriott Tempe at Arizona Mills Mall

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is a very affordable large city with plenty of family-friendly attractions. When we visited, we combined ABQ with visits to the Very Large Array, Spaceport, and White Sands National Park. You can also use Albuquerque as a jumping-off point to visit Santa Fe or Taos. In Albuquerque, you can visit Petroglyph National Monument Visitor Center , where you can see hundreds of petroglyphs carved by Native American and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago.

To learn more about the local indigenous communities at the  Indian Pueblo Cultural Center . Also explore the 100 specialty shops and restaurants in Old Town Albuquerque, including the San Felipe de Neri Church, which was built in 1793. Then get a view of sprawling Albuquerque from above on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

• Things to do in Albuquerque
• Tips for visiting White Sands New Mexico
• Space Centers and Museums in the USA
• Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
• Hotel Parq Central

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas may not hit you as a family spring break destination, but beyond the flight deals to Vegas, there are a surprising number of family-friendly attractions in Vegas. You can take in some of the kid-friendly shows at Treasure Island, the Excalibur, or Cirque de Soleil. Then there are thrills like the FlyOver Las Vegas, High Roller Observation Wheel, the Sky Jump, X-Scream, BigShot at The Strat, and the AdventureDome at Circus Circus.

Plus you have attractions like Hershey’s Chocolate World, M&M’s World, and the Shark Reef Aquarium. There is always free entertainment like the Bellagio fountains, Mirage Volcano, and the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio. There are also great day trips from Las Vegas including Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and the Hoover Dam.

Where to Stay: (with family-friendly pools)

• Mandalay Bay Resort & Spa

Visalia, California

If you are looking to get more off-the-beaten-path and experience some of the National Parks without fighting the crowds at some of the busier parks, try Visalia, California. This town serves as the gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and is a great home base as you explore the nearby Sequoia National Forest, Sequoia National Monument, and public lands.

Nestled in the foothills below the Sierra Nevada, Visalia has a cute downtown Main Street where you can enjoy world-class restaurants and cafes that utilize local ingredients from the fertile agricultural region surrounding the area. Families can also enjoy hiking, biking, and rafting. There are also many family-friendly attractions such as the Visalia Adventure Park, Sequoia Springs Water Park (open seasonally), and the Imagine U Children’s Museum.

See other spring break destinations in California .

• Hampton Inn Visalia
• Holiday Inn Express Visalia

Puerto Rico

If you are craving a Caribbean vacation but don’t have a passport, you can still visit Puerto Rico (for US citizens.) Stroll the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, check out the Castillo San Felipe del Marco, hike through El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System, snorkel or kayak in bioluminescent bays, and enjoy some relaxing beach time.

You will get a perfect mix of culture, history, and island life. You can find affordable hotels just off the beach, or try a vacation rental for even better cost savings. My husband grew up going to Puerto Rico for family vacations every year and his family loved it.

• Doubletree by Hilton San Juan
• Caribe Hilton (this is the one my husband’s family loves)

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

There is a reason why Punta Cana is such a popular destination. Its wide inventory of all-inclusive resorts makes it a great budget destination for families. Plus, there are a number of direct flights from many major cities. There are so many all-inclusives that it can get a bit overwhelming as some are really not great quality and others are not family friendly.

The Dreams resorts are fairly reliable for families looking in this budget range, you just may need to only stay five nights instead of a full week. There are plenty of activities on-site, or you can take excursions to waterfalls, snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, off-roading, and other adventures. If you do want to go a bit more upscale, my husband and I loved the Eden Roc at Cap Cana and found it to be great for families with young children.

• Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
• Nickelodeon Hotel & Resorts Punta Cana
• Royalton Splash Punta Cana

You can often find cheap airfare to Martinique, a French island in the Caribbean. This island is less-visited by American tourists so you won’t find the same high-priced all-inclusive resorts that you find in other spots in the Caribbean.

This is a good spot to relax and enjoy the beach and water activities. In addition, you can explore small towns, hike volcanos, and try local rum. We visited for spring break a few years ago and the weather was perfect. It was nice to be basking in the warm (but not too hot) sun while there was a blizzard going on back at home.

• Club Med Martinique review
• Things to know before planning a Martinique vacation
• La Suite Villa
• Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek
• Hotel Bambou

Looking for more Ideas?

If you are interested in jumping over to Europe for spring break, make sure to check out these 15 European spring break ideas for families .

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: December 10, 2023

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25 Cheap Spring Break Trips That Are Really Fun

Spring break on a budget.

• Aly Walansky

Last updated on Mar 21, 2024

It may seem a little early to start thinking about spring break, but we believe in having something worth looking forward to. These spots are all in the continental US and are a short-haul flight or a drive away for most of us. And while full of fun places to go and things to eat, these cheap spring break trips are surprisingly affordable. While there are always spots in which you can get your money's worth, there are also ways to save serious cash when booking and make your trips more affordable. One example would be looking into rewards credit cards. You may also want to try booking hotels directly versus through third-party sites because those third-party sites often pay a fee.

Also, consider going on a road trip and cutting out the cost of flights altogether. Don't be afraid to do your research and look for online groups, websites, and mailing lists that may have coupons. There are always coupon-filled brochures in hotel lobbies and visitor centers that will score you deals at local stores and restaurants. So, looking to book your next vacation? Check out these 25 cheap spring break trips that won't break the bank.

RELATED:  The Magical "3-Day Effect" Vacation Plan That's Changing Lives

25 Cheap Spring Break Trips That Are Fun

1. new orleans, louisiana .

As some parts of the country are still warming up from the winter, New Orleans is just reaching its peak season. Even better, New Orleans is affordable to the point of downright cheap. There are tons of free and affordable activities throughout the city. Because New Orleans is such a destination for food, nightlife, and festivals, many are free of charge. There are also plenty of affordable options for accommodations. If you’re looking for something bordering on both the historic French Quarter and the trendy Central Business District, there’s nothing better than  La Galerie Hotel .

2. Beaufort, South Carolina 

While Beaufort is the area’s queen belle, the town’s outlying areas each offer a distinctive experience. Think Spanish moss-lined streets, historic antebellum homes, bed and breakfasts (some greats are  Anchorage 1777  and  Cuthbert House Inn ), and coastal waters and marsh as far as the eye can see begging to be explored by foot, bike, boat, or horse-drawn carriage. Go to the beach for a day and go up the state’s only publicly accessible lighthouse for the best views, then take a stroll through Bones Park and explore Hunting Island, or take a historic tour of the second oldest city in South Carolina from the Reconstruction Era National Monument (the bridge where Forrest Gump was filmed running across to Penn Center). Or if you're looking for a little more adventure and have a little to spend, embark on a fishing charter or biplane tour. 

3. Daytona Beach, Florida

Water lovers can learn to paddleboard or surf at  Vast Oceans Surf and SUP , where middle and high schoolers and college students will have a blast learning or perfecting their surf skills. Those looking for a little poolside adventure can try out the thrilling rides at the  Daytona Lagoon  water park, which also features go-karts, a climbing wall, an arcade, and much more. Swing by Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier where there’s plenty of excitement to be had — more thrill rides, seafood restaurants, and live music. And for a unique experience, take a short drive and explore Florida's tallest lighthouse in Ponce Inlet with a 360-degree view of the Atlantic. The Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort , conveniently located in the heart of Daytona’s upscale Oceanfront Village, is the perfect hub from which to explore the destination, and they always have great specials so guests can enjoy a luxury vacation at an affordable price. 

4. Greenville, South Carolina

Main Street is the central hub of activity with more than 120 locally owned restaurants, boutiques, a 32-acre park, the beginning of the 20+ mile Swamp Rabbit Bike Trail, museums, 200+ special events a year including weekly free concerts, a seasonal farmer's market, Moonlight Movies in the park and more. Head out to the ball game with Boston Red Sox Class A affiliate, the Greenville Drive, or rent bikes at  Reedy Rides  for a cruise along the 20+ mile GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail. Make your candles at  Magnolia Scents  or find the perfect pair of jeans at a mother/daughter-owned denim shop,  Beija Flor Jeans .

Enjoy freshly shucked oysters and modern Italian dishes at Jianna or get a taste of the South at  Soby's New South Cuisine  with classics like Spicy Pimiento Cheese, Fried Green Tomatoes, or Antebellum Shrimp & Grits. Enjoy creative mocktails and handcrafted cocktails at  UP on The Roof , a rooftop bar and restaurant with unmatched panoramic views of downtown Greenville. With 11 breweries, Greenville has become quite the brew hub. Try local favorites, or check into the  Hilton Greenville  or  Hyatt Place Greenville/Haywood , just seven minutes from downtown and a short drive from 5 state parks, with hiking and mountain biking trails, kayaking, and more.

5. St. Louis, Missouri

Spring Breakers won’t have to break the bank to spend a week of fun. If you need an escape but don’t want to shell out a fortune, the home of the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis, is perfect to spend less and enjoy more. Admission to most of the top attractions won’t cost a dime, as most of them are free. The best include Saint Louis Science Center, Saint Louis Art Museum, Moto Museum, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis Zoo, and Union Station.

Budget hotels in St. Louis won’t let room prices keep visitors from experiencing all that St. Louis has to offer. Premium accommodation is also available for under the national average at hotels like  Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown At the Gateway Arch  or the  Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch . St. Louis also offers delectable and affordable fare from BBQ to New Americana. Try some of the best barbecue west of the Mississippi at Sugarfire Smokehouse, or Pappy’s Smokehouse, both award-winning barbecue restaurants with daily lines that prove their worth.

6. Chattanooga, Tennessee 

Tucked between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America's most breathtaking cities. Whether you want to take in a play or concert, visit an amazing museum, be a part of the nightlife, enjoy the outdoors , or experience a piece of history, Chattanooga has you covered.  Spring Break Safari  is a no-missing event with fun for kids and grown-ups; 4 Bridges Arts Festival  is a two-day, nationally-ranked arts festival that draws more than 12,000 people annually and features exceptional visual and fine art from more than 15 local and regional artists, a diverse art market, Creative Kids area, live music, and great local food.

Stay at the  Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel . Originally opened as Chattanooga’s Train Terminal in 1909 and converted into a hotel in 1974, the 26-acre property boasts a wonderful 85-foot dome and the coolest accommodations. Guests can go back to the railroad days and stay in beautiful old sleeper cars, dine under the sophisticated dome, shop at the retail stores, and enjoy the famous southern hospitality.

7. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Roughly 150 miles south of Washington, Virginia's Colonial Williamsburg is one of the true national jewels in America's travel crown. Authentically preserved buildings, support staff in period costumes, and historic demonstrations such as military munition drills and drum marches happen daily and add up to a magical experience many might assume is more suited to family travel. 

John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller oversaw the design and construction of the opulent Williamsburg Inn before it opened in 1937, right down to the custom-made furnishings. Hot tip: At breakfast, the Goodwin or Terrace Rooms serve made-to-order doughnut holes dusted with chocolate sugar. Hygge may be all the rage, but you don’t know how cozy until you’ve broken bread in one of the intimate dining rooms at Christina Campbell’s Tavern, a restored 18th Century eatery that’s almost entirely illuminated by the flickering light of beeswax candles.

Want to experience how the 1 percent lived, circa 1700? Take a jaunt in a horse-drawn carriage modeled after those owned by the town’s wealthiest citizens. Even your coachman’s garments are true to what the driver would have worn. A resident historian and Alewerks Brewing Co. have concocted four varieties adapted from 18th-century brewing manuals. Among them are Toby’s Triple Threads Porter, featuring sugar and molasses that’s been set on fire in a giant cast-iron kettle, and the spicy Dear Old Mum made with a now-obscure long pepper.

8. Buellton, California

This is the perfect spring break destination for those who want to save some money but also have a great time. Located north and in the heart of the Santa Barbara Wine Country and just 10 miles from the beautiful Pacific Ocean on Highway 101, staying in Buellton gets you the experience of luxury without breaking your bank account. Why spend $300 for one night in Santa Barbara, when you can spend 3 nights in Buellton for the same price and enjoy this quaint town? 

Buellton offers affordable lodging accommodations like the ultimate glamping experience at Flying Flags Resort . You’ll feel like you spent a million bucks in one of nine renovated vintage airstreams, a homey wine, brew, or surf cottage, or the ultimate glamping experience of a safari tent. Keep busy by feeding ostriches and emus at Ostrichland USA or take a tour of the Mendenhall Museum, a personal collection of interesting gas station/automobile memorabilia and other antiques. Buellton was the original craft beer destination on the Central Coast, with California beer aficionado favorites Firestone and Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. calling the area home. The town is also home to the first distillery since prohibition in Santa Barbara County and a robust wine-making scene. 

RELATED:  50 Best Destinations Across The US For A Fun Family Road Trip This Summer

9. Dana Point, California

Located almost directly between San Diego and Los Angeles, Dana Point is the perfect, welcoming beach town that is ideal for spring break. Dana Point serves as Orange County’s low-key historic surf town equipped with a thriving harbor, world-class festivals, and a fitness-loving community. Known for its active community, Dana Point offers watersport excursions that fit every visitor’s lifestyle, from stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking to whale watching and deep-sea fishing.

Dana Point has four wonderful resorts that are all a short distance from the sandy beaches of the Pacific. The most affordable would be DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach, which is within walking distance from the sandy beaches. Venture outside the resort and learn to surf at Doheny State Beach by setting up a lesson with Girl in the Curl, a local surfing instruction shop that offers public clinics and private lessons. And finally, since Dana Point is in California, all beaches are public so spring breakers can spend the entire day lounging on the beach and swimming in the water without additional costs.

10. Catskills, New York

The Catskill Mountains offer both relaxation and adventure for those enjoying their spring break. Try hiking, foraging, and trekking through the Windham and Catskill Mountains, or biking through trails and nearby tours. Additional nearby activities include horseback riding, zip-lining, fishing, tubing, and making a splash at local swimming holes. One nice place to stay is  Eastwind Hotel & Bar , a cool boutique hotel that was originally a bunk house for hunters, fly fishermen, and other outdoor enthusiasts dating back to the 1920s. Hungry? Get in the car and check out  Woodnotes Grille , which focuses its menu on handcrafted cocktails and ingredients sourced from the local Hudson Valley area.

11. Baltimore, Maryland

From  Union Collective , a former warehouse turned into a workspace for Baltimore creators/a destination for the locally-minded consumer, to many others, visitors to Baltimore can find authentic experiences and support the local community around every corner. Travelers can dine at one of many eateries by Baltimorean Chef Spike Gjerde (a James Beard Award winner), including Woodberry Kitchen,  and Bird in Hand. Other Charm City hot spots include Gunther & Co. for globally-inspired New American dishes and craft cocktails, or  The Land of Kush for vegan soul food.   

But where can you stay? The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore Inner Harbor, of course. It's a one-of-a-kind upscale boutique hotel in Baltimore’s bustling midtown business district and easily accessible to a full range of cultural, entertainment, and dining options. Hotel Monaco is just minutes from the vibrant Inner Harbor, the Baltimore Convention Center, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, and the Walters Art Museum. Housed in the former B&O Railroad headquarters, all are greeted by a grand entrance with marble floors, towering marble staircases, and Tiffany stained-glass windows.

12. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Although it has no beaches, Pittsburgh takes full advantage of its three rivers with things like floating tiki bars and wake surfing.  Venture Outdoors  also rents kayaks for a reasonable $16 per hour. After a day of activities, visitors have plenty of bars to choose from, ranging from divey to dapper! Pittsburgh has more per capita than any other city in the U.S.  Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh , a downtown boutique hotel within walking distance of everything mentioned above, is a great home base for spring breakers and offers a luxurious experience for reasonable rates. Included in that rate are morning coffee and tea to start the day, an evening wine hour to start the night, and public bikes to get around the city.

13. Sarasota, Florida

Situated on Florida’s west coast, Sarasota is characterized by beautiful white sand beaches, diverse dining, enriching arts and culture, and great boutique shopping. Perfect for travelers looking to soak up the sun in a beach destination but want something a bit more low-key than Miami, Sarasota offers great hotels, beaches, spas, rooftop bars, and a diverse arts and culture scene. Sarasota is also easily accessible for travelers, as it is near two International airports: Sarasota-Bradenton International and Tampa International. Hotels such as the  Ramada by Wyndham Sarasota ,  The Westin Sarasota , and  Regency Inn & Suites  are all affordable options during the spring break months and are within very close proximity to the beach and activities.

14. Austin, Texas

True, SXSW may take over the capital city every March, but there’s way more to Austin beyond the long-running festival. Blue Prairie Restaurant overlooks the lagoon, offering on-site craft-brewed beer and a farm-fresh menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.  LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue  is a barbecue truck offering a rotating selection of alternative cuts and creative sides made with locally sourced products. Known for his innovative takes on Texas barbecue, Pitmaster, and Chef Evan LeRoy incorporate elements of fine dining and from-scratch cooking into the menu to shine a light on the traditional cuisine. Get in the Texas cowgirl mood by donning some famous Allens Boots from the "boots-to-borrow" program at the Aloft/Element Austin Downtown. Head down to Ladybird Lake for a morning stand-up paddleboard session with a city view. Spend the afternoon at Austin’s highest rooftop pool & Lounge, Azul. Head out to one of Austin’s famous entertainment districts, from the dive-bar-centric party scene of 6th Street to the lively backyard bars of Rainey Street. Live music is everywhere!

15. Amelia Island, Florida​

Amelia Island is an enchanting barrier island off Florida’s northeastern coast. In spring, Amelia’s sunny shores, soft sea breezes, and breathtaking scenery provide an ideal backdrop to bond. Besides spending days on the beach, families can bike through  Fort Clinch State Park , paddle past Florida flora and fauna in a kayak, take a family-friendly sunset sail on the river, or stroll through Amelia Island’s 52-block historic district. When lunchtime comes, don’t skimp on shrimp. The island was the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry and was once the shrimping capital of the world. Get your fix at the affordable  Timoti’s Seafood Shak .

Don't forget to stop at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island  to try the Lobby Bar’s Smoked Old Fashioned — it is a Boomerang dream come true. Made with Hickory Smoked Belle Meade Bourbon, St Germain, Luxardo Cherry, Orange, and Orange bitters, the cocktail is brought out in a smoke-filled chamber and opened in front of your eyes. Inspired by bourbon legends, The Lobby Bar features small-batch spirits and craft cocktails, introducing new traditions such as “First Call,” “Tableside Infusions,” and the “Legends Table.”

16. Alexandria, Virginia

Minutes from Washington, D.C. on the Potomac River, Old Town Alexandria was a busy seaport from colonial times through the Civil War and even during World War II when the Torpedo Factory Art Center was a naval torpedo factory. Take some time to recharge at  Misha’s Coffee , a large coffee house that consists of three rooms and encourages community with several large tables meant for sharing.

Vermilion, Union Street Public House, The Majestic, Del Ray Pizzeria, and The Dairy Godmother — all are Alexandria restaurants visited by the Obamas while they lived in the White House. There might be some fun places to try out for dinner! Travelers hoping to take part in the springtime festivities can stay at the centrally-located  Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa  which echoes Old Town’s classic and refined charm with modern and relaxed flair throughout all 107 guest rooms including 16 suites. The hotel’s contemporary design from MONOGRAM by BBGM, part of its multimillion-dollar renovation, is an inviting and elegant option for travelers looking for a boutique option over spring break. 

RELATED:  The 10 Most Romantic Destinations You've Never Heard Of

17. Natchez, Mississippi

A place resplendent with natural beauty, Natchez is perched over 200 feet above the Mississippi River, with 30-mile views along the river both north and south. Natchez is a great spot for history buffs and for those who love the Southern lifestyle — easy elegance and casual charm, true hospitality, historic homes, lush gardens and moss-covered oaks, and delicious down-home fare. People flocking to Natchez this Spring can stay at The Natchez Grand Hotel for a comfortable and affordable stay. Conveniently located in the Historic Downtown district overlooking the Mississippi River, the hotel is just steps from dining, shopping, entertainment, and many of the city's famous attractions and antebellum homes.

18. Paradise Coast, Florida

Florida’s Paradise Coast has an array of vacation options year-round. With more than 30 miles of soft white sand beaches, a thriving arts and culture scene, distinctive dining, lively attractions, and the best outdoor adventure, the Paradise Coast is truly a destination with it all. Vacationers looking for a beachy spring break off the beaten path should try Marco Island, one of the Ten Thousand Islands that make up the southern tip of the Paradise Coast and is home to white sand beaches with crystal blue waters, just a few miles away from reality.

Onlookers can at times spot dolphins off the west coast island, which delivers breathtaking sunsets every night. The island offers adventurous options like sunset cruises, sailing, and paddle boarding for those who want to add a bit of action to their laid-back trip. Along the shore, shelling enthusiasts can add rare finds to their collections like scotch bonnet, zigzag scallop, hawk-wing conch, and even the elusive junonia. Beachgoers can spot wildlife in spots like Tigertail Beach Park which hosts a butterfly garden, a tidal lagoon, and boardwalks that allow glimpses of a variety of bird species. An amazing spot to stay in Naples is the Inn on Fifth . Pay attention to seasonal deals as the season grows closer and you may just get this posh boutique spot for a surprisingly good rate! 

19. Sonoma County, California

With more than 425 wineries, miles of rugged Pacific coastline, towering redwood forests, and its proximity to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Sonoma County is a traveler’s dream vacation spot in California. Sonoma County represents the best of Northern California: premium wine, farm-to-table dining, unique resorts, and spas, and over 50 state and regional parks. While in the area, guests can partake in the free Vineyard Adventure program , a self-guided free tour of participating vineyards where guests can learn about sustainability practices and smart farming. Sonoma Canopy Tours involves an exhilarating 2-1/2 half-hour guided eco-tour that includes seven zip lines, two sky bridges, a majestic spiral staircase, a rappel to the forest floor, and hiking through the world-famous California Coastal Redwoods.

Some great spots to eat include  Bravas , which is just outside Sonoma in Healdsburg,  Bird & The Bottle ,  Stark’s Steak & Seafood , and  Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar . The options are endless! Just 90 minutes north of San Francisco in the heart of Sonoma’s Wine Country, Russian River Autocamp is a modern retreat in the Sonoma redwoods. Travelers can relax in custom-designed camping suites that include one-of-a-kind AutoCamp Airstreams, luxury canvas tents, and handcrafted Shelton Huts. The Astro Motel has 34 rooms that face onto a garden courtyard, filled with original mid-century-modern furniture, fixtures, and art.

20. Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Geographically blessed with the deepest hot springs in the world, Pagosa Springs has three downtown hot springs facilities. The Springs Resort and Spa features 23 therapeutic mineral pools with a full-service spa. When you stay on-site, visitors also have 24-hour soaking access. Overlook Hot Springs Spa is a Victorian-style tub experience, complete with rooftop soaking and unforgettable views. Healing Waters Resort & Spa offers a large outdoor pool heated naturally, in addition to European-style indoor baths.

Catch a performance at The Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts, which hosts popular shows by the  Thingamajig Theatre Company . Pagosa Springs is also home to cross-country skiing trails, snowshoeing opportunities, hikes (frozen waterfalls are always a treat), hot air balloon rides, dog sledding, and lakes perfect for ice fishing. The views are breathtaking, from every vantage point. Sip some brews at the award-winning Riff Raff Brewing Company, which uses geothermal heat to produce their beers.

21. North Lake Tahoe, California

North Lake Tahoe boasts two dozen beaches, 12 ski resorts, hundreds of miles of biking trails, half a dozen communities, and a growing number of nationally recognized human-powered events, races, and festivals. The region’s spring season or “secret season” means peaceful beaches, discounted travel packages, dual-sport opportunities, and ski/ride discounts. With diverse mountain peaks and the largest alpine lake in the US, the secret season allows for multiple sports in one day. Ski at  Northstar California  or  Mt. Rose Tahoe , hike the iconic  Tahoe Rim Trail , and the  Tahoe Flume Trail  offer panoramic mountain views for biking/hiking, play one of the region’s 16 golf courses, including  Tahoe City Golf Course , which celebrates its centennial anniversary this season, experience clear-bottom kayaks with  Clearly Tahoe .

With modern comforts and a rustic feel, Basecamp Tahoe City  is a boutique hotel built for exploring the lakes, trails, and mountains in North Lake Tahoe. Amenities include fire pits for sharing stories and roasting s'mores, winter communal dinners, and accommodations for skiing, snowboarding, and cycling. Hop on the North Lake Tahoe Ale Trail  — an interactive map that connects the lake’s best eateries and breweries with various modes of human-powered transportation. 

22. Los Angeles, California

Obviously, we love LA any time of year for the beach and sun , but there's so much fun to be had, and you don't even have to wait for spring since in LA it's always spring. Rather than a heat wave, make waves in the pool. Imagine dancing all night and waking up to room service. That's our kind of spring break. While in LA, walk on the Santa Monica piers, check out the farmer's market, and do some star-watching at local restaurants. Check out Meghan Markle's favorite sushi place at Sushi Park in West Hollywood. Start spicy with farm-fresh tacos and tequila shooters at the edgy  Pink Taco  at the north end of the strip, then glam it up and head down south for the full star treatment at  Drybar , before unwinding in the garden at  Eveleigh Restaurant .

23. San Francisco, California

This charmed city by the Bay is always beautiful, so there's never a wrong time to celebrate spring! Visit the  Ferry Building  and check out  Dandelion Chocolate , but leave room for dinner at  Waterbar , San Francisco’s foremost seafood restaurant, an outdoor movie in Hotel Zoe’s courtyard with cocktails by the firepits, and more. Stay at  Hotel Zoe , one of San Francisco’s luxury boutique hotels, for an Indian Summer getaway any time of year. Visit  Comstock Saloon ; their Lo Mein Cacio e Pepe is seriously amazing, and the restaurant’s location in the middle of Chinatown and North Beach (SF’s “Little Italy”) is perfect for exploring.

24. Nashville, Tennessee

There's so much to see in Nashville, you'll never be bored. From great food — don't miss the hot chicken at spots like Hattie B's or Prince's — to the music history on various tours and museums. There are honky tonks and endless restaurants and, of course, live music. Check out the music venue, Analog, bringing you the best of both worlds with signature libations from their creative cocktail menu, followed by a spontaneous night of live entertainment amongst distinct music programming.

Whether it's exploring country music's biggest stage  Grand Ole Opry  strolling through the heart of Nashville's entertainment district on music row to visit the historic  RCA Studio B  (where everyone from Elvis Presley to Carrie Underwood has laid down tracks), or learning about Nashville's Prohibition-era legacy at the local distillery,  Nelson's Green Brier , while sampling the very best of Tennessee whiskey, there's a lot of fun to be had here. Eat at spots like Husk or Biscuit Love, and leave time to explore the vibrant city of Nashville. Stay at Hutton Hotel , a beautiful boutique property with a rich history. Another spot to consider is  TownePlace Suites Nashville Goodlettsville , an affordable hotel option with outdoor grilling options and free breakfast.  Nashville Underground ’s “Lynne’s Nashville Hot Chicken Truffle Mac & Cheese" combines southern staple mac and cheese with Nashville-beloved hot fried chicken. 

25. Key West, Florida

With coral reefs and its spot only 90 miles north of Cuba, this legendary destination is a can't-miss for more than Margaritaville (you should go there, though). There's diving, snorkeling, fresh seafood, and lots of people-watching at the various cruise ports. Head down to the southernmost point to soak in the sun, and live it up like a pirate on the infamous Duval Street. 

Key West has earned its reputation as a vibrant and electric party atmosphere, perfectly crafted for bachelorettes looking to live it up with its 24/7, 365-active nightlife. Wake up and parasail or take a helicopter tour high in the sky; catch the sunset on a sunset sail cruise with unlimited wine, and party it up at dozens of bars on Duval Street until the sun comes up. Key West is the closest travelers will get to feeling like they're in the Caribbean — and no passport is required! After dining, drinking, and dancing around the island, dash back to  NYAH  in the center of all the action. 

RELATED:  7 Most Swoonworthy Staycation Ideas For Couples

Aly Walansky is a NY-based lifestyle writer who focuses on health, wellness, and relationships. Her work appears in dozens of digital and print publications.

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10 cheap Spring Break trips for travelers on a budget

Looking for an affordable way to make the most of your spring break? We've shared our top 10 picks for memorable cheap spring break trips (with free accommodation!).

Apr 06, 2024

Say the words " spring break " and you'll conjure up images of crazy beach parties and road trips with friends. You'll also probably think about the big price tag that often comes with those quintessentially "college" experiences. It doesn't have to be that way. There are many ways to do cheap spring break trips that you'll remember for a lifetime.

After all, spring break, like any kind of travel, is what you make of it. If you'd like to keep your expenses low and your experience life-changing , you've arrived at the right article. I'll share the best spring break destinations to enjoy on a budget and ways to have a fun, fullfiling experience in each of them.

Work exchange programs like Worldpackers allow students to find free accommodation in amazing locations , in exchange for just a few hours of work every day. You'll be having an adventure you never want to forget , instead of a week of experiences you'd rather not relive.

If the opportunity to immerse yourself in a culture , meet like-minded travelers, and see the world on a dime sounds like your idea of an epic spring break, keep reading and discover the best 10 cheap spring break trips for college kids.

You might also like to read:  

• 14 TOP cheapest countries to visit as a Worldpackers volunteer
• How to travel cheap in the USA? Go to any state without spending much
• 10 best offbeat places to visit in the USA

TOP 10 cheap spring break trips: best destinations

1. charleston, south carolina.

If warm breezes, slow southern drawls, and sweet tea sound like your idea of a relaxing spring break, give this growing Southern destination a chance. Charleston offers all of the relaxation and warmth of a traditional spring break destination , but with a fun foodie scene and some cultural charm mixed in.

While in Charleston, you can walk around the historic district, visit Fort Sumter and the Charleston City Market, explore Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and, of course, relax on the beautiful beaches, such as Folly Beach, Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island .

Through  this opportunity  with Worldpackers you get free stay in exchange for help at a historic family-run hostel.

2. Southern Utah

Alright, I'll admit. There isn't a beach in sight in Southern Utah. That said, you can fill your days with invigorating hikes, epic rock climbing adventures, and one of the best road trips the US has to offer.

Southern Utah is home to five iconic national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands, making it a nature lover's paradise.

3. Los Angeles, California

I know, I know. You read LA and you see dollar signs, but this area is ripe for creative traveling. If you've got photography or videography experience, consider putting your talent to work where it's most appreciated.

The vibrant City of Angels is full of interesting stuff, from the glamour of Hollywood to the beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks, and thriving arts and culture scene . From the trendy Santa Monica and Venice beaches to the legendary Malibu and the surfer's paradise of Huntington Beach, LA makes for a perfect spring break destination. 

And you can enjoy all that with free accommodation with one of the Worldpackers cultural exchange opportunities available in Los Angeles.  There are hostels, coliving spaces and even a boat in need of people to help out with content writing, video making, housekeeping, welcoming guests, painting and decorating and much more.

Keep reading about LA:   Once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles 

Cheap and Hawaii don't typically belong in the same sentence, but there are work exchange opportunities available that will greatly offset the cost and provide an amazing travel experience for your upcoming spring break trip.

In this dream destination you can enjoy stunning beaches, water sports, lush landscapes, hiking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls and scenic vistas ... And, of course, immerse yourself in the rich Hawaiian culture, with great food, music, dance and other traditions.

You can help at a permaculture fruit farm, a charming B&B, an holistic center, a homestay and many other super interesting hosts in Hawaii.

You might also like to read:   Backpacking Hawaii: budget-friendly adventure guide

5. Austin, Texas

Want a little more country in your life? Head to vibrant Austin, Texas for live music, mouthwatering tacos, and good weather.

Referred to as the " Live Music Capital of the World ", Austin offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and outdoor activities. Apart from the lively atmosphere at its numerous music venues, you can explore its vibrant arts scene in galleries, theaters and museums or simply enjoy its friendly, laid-back vibe.

For just a couple hours of work a few days a week, you'll be able to explore this fun city without worrying about your budget if you join a Worldpackers volunteer program in Austin. 

6. Colorado Springs, Colorado 

If you're more of a mountain man/mama than a beach bum, consider Colorado Springs as an alternative and relatively cheap spring break destination.

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is a stunning travel destination. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, it's the perfect place for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, camping and white-water rafting. 

It's  also a family-friendly destination, with attractions for all ages, making it a great choice for those looking for  cheap spring break trips for families .

Join this rad team and help with light housekeeping around a hostel, all while enjoying the mountains at your doorstep. 

And check out the best things to do in Colorado !

7. Miami, Florida

Betcha didn't know Miami could be a budget-friendly spring break destination , did you? There are some super cool work exchange opportunities in the Miami area and all over Florida . 

On your free time, you can hang out at beautiful beaches or explore what makes Miami a  cultural melting pot , with Cuban, Haitian and Caribbean influences reflected in its cuisine, music, arts and festivals.

If you're into partying, you'll definitely enjoy its vibrant nighlife , with plenty of nightclubs, bars, and lounges where you can dance the night away.

8. San Diego, California 

Just a few hours south of LA, San Diego is a more affordable, more relaxing destination for a cheap spring break trip . 

Known for its near-perfect weather, with mild temperatures and abundant sunshine year-round, San Diego boasts over 70 miles of pristine coastline with some of the most beautiful beaches in California.

From popular beaches like Coronado Beach and La Jolla Shores to hidden gems like Sunset Cliffs and Torrey Pines State Beach , it makes for an amazing spring break destination.

While you're there, check out its thriving food and craft beer scene and explore the many hiking trails in the nearby mountains.

San Diego was the place where Worldpackers was created, and there are many amazing hosts there who offer a fun collaborative experience. Take a look at all the work exchange and volunteer programs in San Diego.

Cheap spring break international trips

Want to travel abroad without breaking the bank? Here's a couple of great cheap spring break trips you can do outside of the US.

You hear "resort in Mexico" and you probably don't think "cheap vacation spots." But with plenty of international flights from the US daily, Mexico is one of the great cheap spring break international trips to explore. The country offers great value for money, with a favorable exchange rate.

Blessed with stunning coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Mexico offers an array of beautiful beaches to enjoy. From the popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen to lesser-known gems like Sayulita and Puerto Escondido, Mexico's beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life.

And there's much more to it, like its rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years, the warm hospitality and welcoming nature of locals and its delicious cuisine, world-renowned for its bold flavors.

And while the cost of all-inclusive resorts and fancy excursions can be daunting. With Worldpackers, though, you can reduce those costs dramatically and have lots of fun while living a deeper cultural immersion.

There are hundreds of volunteering opportunities in Mexico , from popular beach destinations like Cancún and Playa del Carmen to charming towns like San Miguel de Allende and Puebla .

10. Ireland

While you certainly won't be working on your tan while on a cheap spring break trip to Ireland, you could have a really interesting cultural exchange (and a few pints of Guinness while you're there). With budget airlines flying to Dublin often, getting to Ireland can be easier than you think. 

Apart from its breathtaking sceneries and many opportunities for hiking and other outdoor adventures, Ireland has a fascinating history, with ancient Celtic roots. It's also home to quaint villages and cosmpopolitan cities, and Irish people are known for their warm hospitality.

Once you're there, consider helping out a family in an old Irish country house or help at this remote B&B for an authentic Irish experience. 

What cheap spring break trips would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section!

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Allyson Dobberteen

Allyson quit her corporate marketing job in July 2018 and has been traveling the world through work exchange ever since. The highlight reel includes tutoring English while sailing in Greece and becoming a live-in nanny for a traveling family in New Zealand and Australia.

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Tiago Marucci

Apr 02, 2020

Bună prieteni, aș vrea să vă recomand un site foarte tare pentru evaluarea caselor de pariuri din România - topcasedepariuri.com. Site-ul merge dincolo de simple evaluări și oferă recenzii detaliate ale fiecărei case de pariuri, subliniind punctele forte, punctele slabe și caracteristicile care le diferențiază. Fie că sunt interesat de pariuri în timp real, compatibilitate cu telefoanele mobile sau metode de plată, recenziile oferă informații complete care m-au ajutat să aleg platforma potrivită pentru preferințele mele. Foarte recomandat

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10 Affordable Spring Break Trips for 2021, According to Kayak

Read on for 10 affordable spring break trips in the U.S. and Mexico, according to Kayak data.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Spring break is just a few short months away, and this year, travelers could score some great deals to destinations around the United States and Mexico. Whether you're dreaming of a Hawaii beach vacation or a trip to one of the country's best cities, there's a budget-friendly option for you. We teamed up with Kayak to curate a list of 10 affordable spring break trips. To find the best deals, Kayak considered the prices of flights from U.S. locations with search dates of Nov. 1, 2020 through Dec. 13, 2020 for spring break travel (looking at March 27, 2021 through April 3, 2021), compared to prices for the same dates a year ago.

Flight prices are down over 25% for these destinations, and travelers can find great deals on hotels or opt for an Airbnb to save a few more bucks on their spring break vacation.

In a statement shared with Travel + Leisure, Vanessa Kafka, Kayak's head of product, said, "While travel has largely been on hold this year, people are slowly starting to get back out there. As they do, there are a number of factors to take into consideration. Are they more comfortable driving versus flying, staying in an apartment rental versus a hotel — the list is endless. For those who feel comfortable flying, fares are cheap and flexible. And waived change fees from airlines have made flexible travel more accessible."

Here are 10 of the most affordable spring break trips for 2021, according to Kayak. If you're thinking about travel, but not quite ready to book, Kayak can help: The Explore feature allows consumers to easily see important COVID-related information, and the Travel Restrictions map breaks down regulations by state or country. Some listed destinations may restrict travelers from certain areas or require visitors to quarantine. Of course, local restrictions are subject to change at any time, so be sure to check with the relevant authorities before planning a trip.

Destinations in the Northeast U.S.

Philadelphia, pennsylvania.

Prices for flights to Philadelphia are down 52% year over year. If you aren't enticed by the affordable airfares, the vibrant food scene and countless historical and cultural sites offer even more reasons to visit the City of Brotherly Love.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is the second northeastern city on the list, with flight prices down 33% compared to last year. Temperatures begin warming up in late March, so visitors can take in historic attractions like the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, Boston Common, and more.

Destinations in the South and West U.S.

Dallas, texas.

They say everything's bigger in Texas, but it seems flight costs are the exception, since prices are down 36% year over year. The massive city has plenty of affordable accommodation options, too, so you can worry more about finding the best Tex-Mex and less about the cost of your spring break trip.

Palm Springs, California

Flight prices are down 36% for Palm Springs, California. This desert oasis has everything you need for a relaxing spring vacation, and it's the perfect home base for those wanting to explore Joshua Tree National Park. There are affordable hotel and Airbnb options, but you might be tempted to splurge on a luxe resort with your flight savings.

San Diego, California

San Diego offers another West Coast option for budget travelers this spring break, with flight prices down 33% year over year. There are so many great neighborhoods to check out, from the trendy Gaslamp Quarter to stunning La Jolla, in addition to plenty of things to do on and off the beach .

Destinations in Hawaii

Kailua-kona, hawaii.

If Hawaii is on your bucket list, you're in luck: Three Hawaiian destinations are on this list, and Kailua-Kona had the largest flight price drop, with costs down 42%. From Kailua-Kona, you can explore the incredible natural beauty of the Island of Hawaii, including black-sand beaches and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Flight prices to Honolulu are down 28%, making the Hawaiian capital city an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Located on Oahu, the city offers tons to see and do, including famous Waikiki Beach, Iolani Palace, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, and more.

Lihue, Hawaii

Prices for flights to Lihue, Hawaii, are down 27%. Lihue Airport is Kauai's main airport, so it's the gateway to exploring the rest of this beautiful island. At the time of publication, Kauai requires travelers to complete a 10-day mandatory quarantine (unlike the other islands that are accepting negative COVID-19 test results as a way to bypass a quarantine).

Affordable Spring Break Trips in Mexico

Puerto vallarta, jalisco.

With prices for flights to Puerto Vallarta down 43% year over year, sun-seekers could find a great deal for spring break. Accommodation options range from luxe all-inclusive resorts to affordable hotels, so there's something for every type of traveler.

Cancun, Quintana Roo

White-sand beaches and turquoise waters await travelers in Cancun, where flight prices are down 37% compared to last year. Opt for a worry-free spring break when you book an all-inclusive that offers meals, drinks, activities, and more in one price (there are great options for couples, groups, and even families ).

Related Articles

17 Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations

Written by Lura Seavey Updated Feb 7, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Cheap spring break trips for college students and families are not hard to come by if you know where to look.

March and early April are an ideal time to visit the southern United States , the Caribbean , and Central America . Those looking for beautiful beaches and a seaside atmosphere have plenty of affordable choices, even in some of the most popular classic spring break destinations.

There are also several excellent alternatives that cost less than the high-profile destinations but offer just as much, if not more, excitement and relaxation.

For ideas on the most affordable places to visit, see our list of the best cheap spring break destinations.

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

2. cancún, mexico, 3. miami beach, florida, 4. south padre island, texas, 5. nassau, the bahamas, 6. orlando, florida, 7. punta cana, dominican republic, 8. montego bay, jamaica, 9. daytona beach, florida, 10. destin, florida, 11. puerto vallarta, mexico, 12. las vegas, nevada, 13. washington, d.c., 14. moab, utah, 15. new orleans, louisiana, 16. savannah, georgia, 17. austin, texas, map of cheap spring break destinations.

With 60 miles of white-sand beaches, it's no wonder that Myrtle Beach is South Carolina's top beach destination for college students. Since spring break isn't during peak tourist season, rates are lower, but the weather is still great for enjoying all the things to see and do in Myrtle Beach .

You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a good time on the beach, and people-watching is one of the best things to do here. Other inexpensive activities include kite-flying, tossing a frisbee, shell collecting, and, of course, swimming.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is where visitors will find most of the tourist attractions and restaurants, as well as a huge selection of resorts and hotels for every budget. This is also where you'll find rental kiosks for water sports equipment, instructors offering lessons, as well as plenty of tour operators who will take you out on the water for a cruise.

After the sun goes down, tourists use the SkyWheel as a landmark and reference point, its one million lights an unmistakable beacon on the sand. A ride on this massive gondola-style observation wheel is great for photos, and especially stunning at sunset.

If you're looking for a break from the sun, check out Ripley's Aquarium , where you can walk through a reef, watch a mermaid show, or even swim with the sharks. If you've got kids with you (or just want to feel like a kid again), head to WonderWorks to see fun science exhibits, play laser tag, and zipline 1,000 feet above the water.

If you're looking for evening entertainment, be sure to check out Dolly Parton's " Pirates Voyage " dinner show. It's a crowd-pleaser for all ages, so be sure to get your tickets ahead of time.

Cancún is one of the world's most iconic spring break spots, a planned resort destination with 21 kilometers of white-sand beaches and plenty of resort options for families.

Visitors have plenty of options for inexpensive things to do, from sunbathing and people-watching to snorkeling the huge barrier reef that protects the narrow island. Evenings are full of options, too, with plenty of live music and events happening year-round.

If you need a break from the sun, visit the inexpensive and fascinating Cancún Mayan Museum (Museo Maya de Cancún) and the adjacent El Rey Maya Archaeological Site (El Rey Zona Arqueológica) to get a look into the ancient Mayan world.

Land-lovers who want to get up close to marine life can check out the Interactive Aquarium Cancún , and anyone looking for a truly unique experience should visit the Cancún Underwater Museum , a submerged sculpture exhibit.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cancún

Miami Beach has everything you need to have the most memorable spring break, from sandy beaches and people-filled boardwalks to a wide range of dining and entertainment options.

Despite the notoriously high prices of the trendy Art Deco Historic District and South Beach area, college students can easily plan a cheap spring break trip by booking a hotel on the northern end of the barrier island and taking advantage of the free trolley to get to and from the area's hot spots.

South Beach is one of Florida's top beaches , often crowded but always a great place to find good food and nightlife.

Just over the causeway in downtown Miami, tourists will find even more shopping and restaurants, as well as free entertainment at the Bayside Marketplace , a huge outdoor mall. It's also home to the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel , which provides passengers with gorgeous views over the city and Biscayne Bay from the comfort of air-conditioned gondolas.

Tourists who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy nature can visit nearby Jungle Island animal sanctuary, or take a day trip to the Everglades National Park for an unforgettable adventure.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami

This tropical barrier island sits in the Gulf of Mexico just south of Corpus Christi, Texas . South Padre Island is the perfect choice for spring break trips for both families and college students thanks to plenty of outdoor activities and entertainment that cost little or nothing.

Beach Activities : After a day of swimming, sunbathing, dolphin watching, and kite-flying, spring breakers can relax and enjoy public performances on the beach or live music at many of the local restaurants. Those who really want to play like a kid can even take one of the many sandcastle building classes.

One of the best things about this destination is Padre Island National Seashore , home to pristine beaches , grassy dunes, and marine life including sea turtles. It is also in the path of the Central Flyway migratory route , with a total of 350 species making the island their temporary home. The Malaquite Visitor Center gives tourists a good introduction to the area.

South Padre Island is also home to many activities that aren't typical of beach resort destinations, making this a great choice for those who want a unique spring break experience . Visitors will find an abundance of things to do, including art classes, comedy shows, and lively market days.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do on South Padre Island

Nassau is the best-known tourist destination in the Bahamas, home to a variety of resorts, attractions, and shopping. The most popular attractions and things to do are on Paradise Island, home to the Versailles Gardens and French Cloister , as well as a fantastic water park at the Atlantis resort, an imaginative representation of the legendary city.

You don't have to stay at the high-end expensive resorts to enjoy their best features, so budget-savvy spring breakers can take advantage of the lower rates at beachfront lodgings like the Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas while enjoying the best the island has to offer.

If you love animals, consider splurging on a swim at Dolphin Encounters on Blue Lagoon Island, or take a trip to Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre to hand-feed rainbow lorikeets. If shopping is more your style, head to the Nassau Straw Market on Downtown Bay Street.

Orlando's popularity as a top family vacation destination makes it surprisingly affordable, with a wide range of excellent resorts and hotels to choose from, fitting all budgets and group sizes.

These savings on lodgings leave more for enjoying the attractions and things to do , the most popular of which are obviously the Walt Disney World parks of the Magic Kingdom , Epcot , Hollywood Studios , and Animal Kingdom , and the Universal Studios parks including the Islands of Adventure and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter .

Both of the major parks also operate dedicated water parks, and favorites include Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Universal's Volcano Bay . SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove are great options for animal lovers, and Exotic Animal Experience is a real treat for those who want to meet a two-toed sloth or owl monkey.

Money-Saving Tips : To make sure you stay on budget during spring break, be sure to book a hotel that provides shuttle service to and from the parks and attractions you're most interested in, since a taxi and rideshare services can get very expensive, especially at park closing times.

You can also save money by booking a room with a kitchen—Disney and Universal are both great about allowing guests to bring in their own food, which can be a big help when you're trying not to break the bank.

The Dominican Republic 's top beach destination has a surprising number of affordable resorts, many of which offer money-saving all-inclusive options . Among the most popular spring destinations, Punta Cana is especially well-known for its ideal parasailing conditions, and tourists will find it easy to get lessons and inexpensive equipment rentals.

Bávaro Beach , which lies at the northern end of the resort town, is among the most popular, and is always bustling with activity. Here, you will find a selection of ocean-view resort restaurants for midday refreshment, as well as entertainment right one the beach, day and night. Those who want to get away from the crowds can follow the shoreline south to some of the quieter spots.

Another option in the Dominican Republic for a package vacation is Puerto Plata . More subdued but still home to some of the country's best beaches , the resorts in Puerto Plata are sometimes even more affordable than Punta Cana.

Known for being one of the Caribbean's top resort destinations, Montego Bay has some surprisingly affordable hotel options and budget-friendly all-inclusive resorts that can make a spring break in paradise a reality.

Things to Do: Vacationers love MoBay for its swimming, snorkeling, and variety of activities in the warm waters of the protected bay. Those who want to venture beyond the expansive palm-lined beaches will find adventures waiting in Montego Bay , from guided tours on bamboo river rafts to thrilling zipline tours of the jungle canopy.

Daytona Beach is a popular spring break destination that offers 23 miles of beautiful beaches. Budget-conscious spring breakers can find plenty of things to do and see along the Boardwalk , where the lively crowds make for an exciting atmosphere, and there is always free entertainment, including street performers and live music to enjoy.

For a great variety of classic, family, and thrill rides there are 10 amusement parks located along the beach, as well as a full selection of carnival games and street food.

If you are looking for free things to do in Daytona Beach , start with a tour of the Angell and Phelps Chocolate Factory — free samples included.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Daytona Beach

Destin's beaches are some of the most spectacular in Florida Panhandle, making it a fantastic destination for spring break.

This is truly a resort destination, designed for an all-in-one, zero-stress vacation. Like any popular vacation spot, some resorts can be expensive, but Destin is also home to a good selection of excellent resorts that don't break the bank.

One of the best, and most affordable, resorts in Destin is the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort , which offers plentiful amenities. The resort offers options for families and large groups, including four-bedroom hotel-style rooms and a variety of condos and villas.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Destin, FL

The beautiful beaches of Puerto Vallarta face the protected waters of Bahia de Banderas , making this an ideal place to visit for swimming and snorkeling, with plenty of room for more adventurous sports like jet skiing and parasailing.

Once known as an exclusive resort town for the wealthy, Puerto Vallarta now offers plenty of inexpensive and dependable hotels to choose from, as well as affordable all-inclusive resorts that allow for a spring break trip on a realistic budget.

A great all-inclusive resort with affordable spring break rates is the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa , a beachfront complex that has several pools, tennis courts, and other recreational facilities, as well as conveniences like water sports equipment and bicycle rentals.

There is also a full-service spa on site, and the property is centrally located in the heart of the Marina Vallarta district.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Travelers on a budget can see plenty of great entertainment for free, especially in the Freemont Street pedestrian area, which has nightly public shows. If you're traveling as a family, Las Vegas has a number of great hotels for kids.

A walk down the world-famous Las Vegas Boulevard , also known simply as The Strip , offers a plethora of sights and excitement. This is where you will find iconic Las Vegas landmarks, like the dancing fountains at the Bellagio , the Paris Hotel's scale model of the Eiffel Tower , and the volcano show at the legendary Mirage .

Spring is a great time of year to visit Las Vegas thanks to the milder temperatures, allowing tourists to warm up from the long winter without melting in the heat of a desert summer.

If you want a break from the city, you can enjoy some great day trips from Las Vegas . In the city and in the surrounding areas you can also find some excellent hiking trails .

Washington, D.C. is a great cheap spring break trip for families thanks to its numerous free attractions and museums.

Top family attractions include the National Zoo , the National Air and Space Museum , and the National Museum of American History . Families will also want to visit D.C.'s iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial , the Washington Monument , and the reflecting pool and memorials along the National Mall .

Spring break coincides with the Cherry Blossom Festival in late March and early April, an annual celebration that fills the city with performances, special events, and throngs of tourists. There are also many options for day trips from Washington, D.C ., especially historic attractions like Colonial Williamsburg and Gettysburg .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington, D.C.

Moab is the ideal spot for active vacationers and thrill-seekers, with an abundance of natural attractions. Those who love the outdoors can save money by staying in one of the Moab area's campgrounds .

Hiking and exploring Utah's stunning landscape is some of the top things to do in Moab during warm weather, and a hike in Arches National Park should be the first destination on your spring break adventure itinerary. The Must-do hike here is Delicate Arch but there are many to choose from. Nearby, the Mesa Arch trail in Canyonlands ( Island in the Sky section) offers scenic vistas that rival the Grand Canyon's.

Spring break tends to land in between Mardi Gras and the French Quarter Festival , so the city's festive atmosphere is in full swing. As long as your spring break vacation doesn't coincide with Mardis Gras celebrations , New Orleans is a great destination for college students looking for a budget-friendly trip.

The French Quarter is the epicenter of New Orleans tourist activity , offering historic buildings, excellent restaurants and cafés, and shopping at boutiques and galleries. The famous Bourbon Street is the main pedestrian thoroughfare that comes to life at night, home to a wide range of entertainment options, including street musicians and the city's hottest restaurants.

Beyond Bourbon Street, the French Quarter's Jackson Square is also home to plenty of free entertainment, with more musicians, street performers, and local artists, as well as many restaurants and shops. Sitting at one end of the square is the picturesque St. Louis Cathedral , with the Moon Walk promenade and Riverboat Docks nearby.

Spring break is the perfect time of year to visit Savannah, with warm but comfortable temperatures and an abundance of things to see and do . Although you won't find the rowdy spring break scenes of the better-known destinations, there is plenty of nightlife and entertainment for college students, as well as a great variety of affordable family attractions.

One of the things that makes Savannah such an affordable option is that tourists can enjoy many of the top attractions just by taking a stroll. Walking is the most enjoyable way to get around the city, and the historic buildings , beautiful parks, and abundant public squares are all free to enjoy.

College students and families looking for a spring break destination that breaks all the stereotypes will love the capital city of Texas. The city's motto, "Keep Austin Weird," is an homage to its variety of unique things to see and do .

One of Austin's most unusual attractions is the nightly feeding flight of the city's population of Mexican free-tailed bats ; the sight of 1.5 million bats emerging from their home beneath the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge is unforgettable.

Downtown Austin is full of a variety of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and excellent restaurants, as well as many free and low-cost activities at its parks. Zilker Metropolitan Park is home to the majority of attractions, including a public pool; a botanical garden; the Austin Nature and Science Center; and the Zilker Hillside Theater , which is home to numerous events, including the Austin City Limits Music Festival .

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10 Practical Tips for Planning a Spring Break on a Budget

Travel Team | Dec 11, 2023

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Just because you’re trying to save money, doesn’t mean you can’t still participate in the age-old tradition of a spring getaway. With a bit of planning and some budget-friendly travel hacks , you can plan an exciting, memorable trip.

Pack your bags and grab your sunscreen. These 10 tips will help minimize your spending and maximize your fun.

1. Determine a Realistic Budget.

Grab a pen and paper, open an Excel doc, or log into your favorite budgeting app because it’s time to crunch some numbers. While it’s not the most fun task, it is important for budget-friendly travel. If you don’t know what you’re working with, you risk getting yourself into a financial situation that’s hard to get out of. You’ll need to know, without a doubt, how much available funds you have when you do get to the fun stuff like booking hotels, choosing flights, and picking excursions.

Don’t just make guesses about your income, either. Do the math based on your paychecks and other incoming money so you’re left with an accurate picture of your budget.

2. Choose Your Destination Wisely.

• Will I need to drive or fly?
• Where will you stay (with friends, in a hostel, in a hotel, etc.)?
• How much does it cost to eat?
• Should I find a place with a kitchen so I can cook meals myself?
• Do I need to rent a car?
• What types of activities do I want to do?
• Am I traveling solo, with family, or with a group of friends?

Some of the most popular spring break hotspots like Miami Beach and Cancun can get pricey. Instead, consider lesser-traveled locales where you can get more bang for your buck thanks to less expensive flights and local attractions. The best part about choosing a less-traveled location is that not only will you save money on travel costs, but you’ll also enjoy a much more relaxing spring break without the crowds found at more popular destinations.

Inexpensive spring break trips

• Jekyll Island, Georgia: Savannah, Georgia, makes many people’s lists for underrated spring break spots, but drive about 90 minutes to the south and you’ll find another gem in Jekyll Island. It’s a prime spot for fishing, golf , and long walks on driftwood-covered beaches.
• Gulf Shores, Alabama: If your Florida spring break days are behind you (translation: you’re no longer in college) but you still want some beach time, make your way to Gulf Shores. This family-friendly beach town is easy to get to, so you don’t have to spend a fortune just to get there. There are plenty of vacation homes for rent, too, perfect if you’re traveling as a group or with all your relatives.
• Red River Gorge, Kentucky: Active travelers and those looking for an inexpensive spring break destination for families will love Red River Gorge. There’s a range of hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural beauty to take in at and around Daniel Boone National Forest. There isn’t much in the way of luxury accommodations, but that’s what helps keep the prices down.
• Salt Lake City, Utah: Get one last ski trip in with a visit to Salt Lake City. There are some of the most affordable ski resorts in the U.S. nearby. See what the big deal is about the lake with trips to the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island state parks.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: For a Caribbean feel without the crush of Dominican beaches, try San Juan. You can still spend some time in the sand and sun, but there’s also fantastic history, shopping, and food in the Old Town. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you don’t need a passport to visit, either.

3. Look for Bundled Deals and All-Inclusive Options.

Groupon also often has getaway travel deals, and if you’re a Costco member, you can take advantage of their budget-friendly travel packages.

Lastly, some people like cruises for this reason. There’s always something you can purchase separately on board or during a call at port, but it’s possible to go the all-inclusive route as well.

4. Find Cost-Effective Travel Alternatives.

If it’s possible to drive to your spring break spot, enlist some friends to take a road trip with you and split the travel costs. If you need to stay overnight along the way, find family or friends who will let you crash on their couch (and maybe treat you to dinner, too). If you want to turn it into an adventure, pack up your camping gear and stay outside.

If driving isn’t an option, consider taking a bus, which is inexpensive and lets you relax while someone else does the driving. When you travel with friends, you can play games and spend more quality time together on the drive. 

If flying is your only option, keep these money-saving tips for flights in mind:

• Compare prices for one-way tickets on different airlines, which are sometimes cheaper than round-trip fares. (Just remember that you may end up paying more in sanity if this makes your itinerary more complex.)
• Fly during the middle of the week.
• Take a red-eye flight.
• Fly via less-popular airports.

5. Ditch the Overpriced Accommodations.

It’s fun to stay in a luxurious hotel with an ocean view, but how much time do you really spend in your room? If you’re willing to forgo some unnecessary amenities, you can save money and still find a decent place to stay.

Hotel star ratings can be a bit tricky — who awards them, can they be trusted, what do they really mean — so use them as a guide, but dig a little deeper in your research, too. You might be able to find a three-star accommodation that’s just as nice and less expensive than one with four stars.

For example, three-star hotels are typically geared toward business travelers and long-term stays, while four-star hotels are marketed toward tourists. The level of service won’t be dramatically different. You’ll likely get tiny bottles of shampoo, some dining options, and a pool at both. It’s just a matter of how luxurious those amenities are.

When you’re watching your pennies, consider “downgrading” to a less expensive three-star hotel that’s still clean, comfortable, and conveniently located. When you pick the perfect place to stay on vacation that’s still on budget, you can spend that money you saved on activities that make lasting memories instead.

6. Only Bring the Money You Need.

Financial preparation isn’t finished after you set your budget. If you want to enjoy a guilt-free spring break, you have to stay within your means the entire time.

To avoid impulse spending, bring only what you need when you go out. If you’re uncomfortable traveling with cash, get a prepaid debit card to take on your trip instead. This is a good hack for semi-independent teens on their first spring break, too.

Don’t forget to keep emergency money stashed away for any unforeseen circumstances. Keep this locked in your room safe. If there isn’t a safe, request one.

7. Buy Groceries.

Considering that you easily spend around $20 per meal, if not more, cutting that cost just once a day will save about $150 over the course of a week-long trip. Decide which meals you’ll indulge in at a restaurant, then take advantage of your hotel’s free breakfast and pack your own lunches and snacks for during the day.

Check for deals online before you leave for your trip. Sites like Groupon and LivingSocial have deals on activities and restaurants, and you can filter your search by location. Find a few awesome restaurant deals ahead of time and make your reservation. This will not only save you money, but it also eliminates the stress of finding a place to eat at the last minute when you’re supposed to be relaxing.

Don’t forget to ask the locals for recommendations. People who know the area can steer you away from tourist traps and help you find more cost-effective dining and entertainment options that are just as good, if not better.

9. Uncover Membership Rewards.

Many credit cards, national clubs or organizations, and even some large retailers offer membership perks to customers. You may be able to save on every aspect of your trip, from the flight to your meals.

Don’t forget to mention if you’re a member of the military, a student, or a senior, which almost always gets you a discount. If you’re traveling with a disability , you and a companion may also be eligible for reduced-price tickets at museums and other sites.

10. Plan a Road Trip, Camping Trip, or Staycation.

Ultimately, if you have enough fun, the destination becomes less important. With some planning and creativity, you can have a great time and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel Insurance for Spring Break

Travel insurance is a key piece to protecting your money. If you need to cancel your trip or if you get sick or hurt while traveling, without travel insurance, you’re responsible for paying all those expenses. With travel insurance, however, you could receive a refund for prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses if you cancel. No one wants to pay for a vacation they didn’t take. And we all know how expensive medical care can be. Travel insurance could help with that cost, too, keeping a health emergency from also turning into a financial emergency.

Get an easy quote online or talk to an expert agent about protecting your spring break trip.

About the Author

Maile Proctor is a professional blogger and content editor. She focuses on health and fitness, lifestyle, and family. She’s written about money-saving travel tips for a variety of websites, including Tripping.com, Active.com, Travefy, and more. She earned her Bachelor's in Broadcast Journalism from Chapman University and when she's not writing, she enjoys hiking in San Diego, California. Follow her on X @Maile_Proctor.

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Westgate Resorts

20 spring break ideas for families on a budget.

Feb 27, 2024

By Westgate Resorts

If you feel like your family has been tethered to their computer or phone screens for the past year, a Spring Break vacation is exactly what you need to refresh and reset as a family, while having a ton of fun.

The best part? It doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of incredible hidden gems and drivable cities across the country that offer affordable accommodations and memorable attractions.

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Whether it's the fun things to do in Orlando or points of interest NYC offers, there are more than enough options for an epic Spring Break vacay, so pack your bags and plan your itinerary! Here are 20 Springs Break ideas for families on a budget!

1 | Branson, MO | Did you know that Branson, Missouri , is known as the Live Entertainment Capital of the World?! This family-friendly city has over 60,000 theater seats for watching incredible live entertainment. Located in the heart of the Ozarks, Westgate's Branson resorts are surrounded by lush, green mountains, so it’s a great place to unwind and spend time outdoors. Enjoy everything from hiking to enjoying water sports on one of Branson’s three major lakes.

You’ll also definitely want to spend a day at the popular amusement park Silver Dollar City, known for its thrill rides and 100 resident craftsmen that create and share the heritage of American crafts daily. They have experts demonstrating the making of everything from leather and pottery to furniture and candy.

Another super unique attraction in Branson is the Titanic Museum. The museum gives guests the Titanic experience, from receiving a passenger boarding ticket to hearing stories about real passengers and browsing actual artifacts from the ship’s wreckage. It’s an awesome educational experience for kids and adults alike.

Pro Tip: Check out Westgate Branson Woods Resort or Westgate Branson Lakes Resort for great resort options, plus full-day excursions to explore the city!

2 | Cocoa Beach, FL | Cocoa Beach is a quintessential Florida beach town, offering classic beachside hotels, a family-friendly surf, and tons of local shops and restaurants. When it comes to spring break, Cocoa Beach is less likely to be filled with crazy college students, so it’s the perfect option for families looking to have some fun in the sun. Plus, it's primely located just about an hour away from Orlando.

Jetty Park is a nice option for families, as it features clean restrooms and great views of the cruise ships docked at port. It can be a bit crowded during peak times of the year, so a hidden gem amongst locals and Florida natives is Cherie Down Park, a lot smaller but if you can find a spot it offers free parking, restrooms and easy access to the beach.

After your beach day, be sure to check out the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop. At 52,000 square feet, it’s the largest of its kind in the world!

Pro Tip: End your perfect beach day with a few sunset drinks on the historic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier ! Grab a drink and dine at delicious Cocoa Beach restaurants while you enjoy spectacular ocean views. Plus, if you're looking for a place to stay, check out Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort !

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8 Family Road Trip Ideas to Try

3 | Gatlinburg, TN | The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in America, welcoming in over 12.5 million people each year. Gatlinburg is the town at the base of the park entrance and an ideal spot for an affordable spring break vacation. Gatlinburg can be quite touristy, but that’s what makes it fun!

Downtown Gatlinburg is very walkable, with its quirky shops, museums, and pancake eateries. You might notice an excessive amount of pancake houses in Gatlinburg, just go with it and make sure you stop by at least once during your visit.

Anakeesta, a theme park above the tree line, is a popular spot for families to spend the day. Get your adventure on with their zip line, mountain coaster, and treetop skywalk – over 800 feet of hanging bridges to walk among the trees.

Other Gatlinburg must-dos include Ripley’s Believe It Or Not and the Mystery Mansion, an elaborate haunted house open year round. And for the adults? The Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery!

Pro Tip: Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is about 10 minutes away from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and features an indoor/outdoor, year-round water park, plus loads of exciting amenities for the whole family.

4 | Orlando, FL | The theme park capital of the world, it’s no secret that Orlando prioritizes family fun. Though if you’re vacationing on a budget, you might want to avoid the parks entirely. There's so many things to do in Orlando , you'll never be able to fit them all in during one trip! And if you're on a budget, don't forget about all the free things to do in Orlando !

Orlando’s Icon Park offers both free and paid entertainment options for everyone in the family, from thrill seekers to those who prefer to take things slow. Adrenaline junkies, rejoice! Here you can take a ride on the world’s tallest swing ride, the Orlando StarFlyer, or take in the sites on the massive Wheel at Icon Park. If you prefer to stay two feet on the ground, explore Madame Tussauds wax museum or the SEA LIFE Aquarium.

Disney Springs is another must-do for families and Disney-lovers on a budget. You could enjoy hours strolling here without spending a dime and just soaking in that Disney magic. Of course, there’s tons of exclusive Disney merchandise available for purchase here if you want to take some of that magic home with you.

You can also indulge in some serious sweets at Sprinkles Cupcakes or Gideon’s Bakehouse, bowl at Splitsville, or see Orlando from 400 feet up in the world’s largest hand-painted helium hot air balloon!

Pro Tip: If you're looking for fun and affordable places to stay during your trip to Orlando, check out Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa or Westgate Town Center Resort ! Both resorts offer proximity to the Orlando's popular theme parks, Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. Plus, both resorts have onsite water parks for the whole family to cool off and enjoy.

5 | Williamsburg, VA | Colonial Williamsburg is where history comes to life! It’s impossible to visit Williamsburg without learning a thing or two about the old colonial way of life in America. The living history museum is a popular attraction for students and families. You can spend a full day exploring the grounds.

Visit the Governor’s Palace, learn how to build with wood in the Carpenter’s Yard, and visit the Weaver to see how clothes were made in the 18th century. When you’re ready, transport back into modern times with a visit to Busch Gardens!

If you’ve ever been to the Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida this one is totally different and is themed after different cities across Europe. If the weather is warm enough, there’s also an awesome water park to check out, Water Country USA. Be sure to double check the hours of operation before planning your visit.

Pro Tip: If you're looking for a charming and comfortable stay, consider resting up at Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort .

6 | Myrtle Beach, SC | Myrtle Beach is one of those beach towns that becomes absolutely packed during the summer months, so spring break is a great time to visit. Myrtle Beach is known for excellent seafood, seaside amusement parks, and of course, its beaches.

North Myrtle Beach is great for that classic beach-town atmosphere, lined with beachside eateries and providing views of amusement park rides. Head to Family Kingdom Amusement Park for great pricing and the most fun in Myrtle Beach! You can buy an all-day unlimited attraction wristband and enjoy all the thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides your heart desires.

Pro Tip: Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort is just steps away from Family Kingdom Amusement Park!

7 | New York City, NY | Spring break in New York City opens a treasure chest of budget-friendly adventures and culinary delights for families eager to explore without spending a fortune. Picture starting your day with a visit to the American Museum of Natural History, where dinosaurs tower overhead and cosmic shows dazzle in the planetarium. Thanks to suggested donation days, the whole family can be awestruck without a hefty price tag. Then, meander through Central Park, stopping at Bethesda Terrace for a free, impromptu concert or to sail miniature boats at the Conservatory.

No visit to NYC is complete without marveling at the Statue of Liberty from the free Staten Island Ferry, offering stunning views and a memorable ride across New York Harbor. After working up an appetite, dive into the diverse flavors of the city with a visit to the historic and vibrant Chinatown. Here, places like Joe’s Shanghai offer mouthwatering soup dumplings that tantalize the taste buds without draining your wallet.

Cap off your adventure with a visit to the One World Trade Center to pay tribute to a tragic day in American history or take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset, a perfect, cost-free way to soak in the city's magnificent skyline. New York City during spring break proves that with a little planning, families can enjoy the rich tapestry of experiences the city offers – from its iconic sights to its hidden corners – all while keeping to a budget.

Pro Tip: Check out Westgate New York Grand Central for a luxurious and relaxing stay amid the hustle and bustle in the city!

8 | Las Vegas, NV | Las Vegas, Nevada, isn't just for high rollers and nightlife enthusiasts. It's a jackpot for families on a budget seeking a spring break filled with fun and excitement. Imagine the joy on your kids' faces as they explore the wonders of the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, where magical flower displays come to life, completely free of charge. Dive into the past with a visit to the Neon Museum, where you can wander among vintage Vegas signs, offering a colorful peek into the city's glittering history at family-friendly ticket prices.

But the fun doesn't stop there! Take a gondola ride at the Venetian, where you'll be serenaded by your gondolier without having to fly all the way to Italy. For those craving a bit of outdoor adventure, the Red Rock Canyon offers breathtaking hiking trails that promise to be as Instagram-worthy as they are budget-friendly.

And when hunger strikes, feast on the diverse, affordable culinary delights along the famed Las Vegas Strip, where food courts and hidden gems serve up meals that won't gamble away your wallet. Las Vegas proves that you don't need to bet big to win a memorable, action-packed family spring break, where every day is a new adventure waiting to happen!

Pro Tip: If you're visiting Las Vegas, why not check out one of the luxury themed suites at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino for your family.

9 | Daytona Beach, FL | Daytona Beach, Florida, is a sunny paradise for families on a budget looking to hit the jackpot of fun and relaxation this spring break. Picture building sandcastles and splashing in the waves on the world-famous Daytona Beach, where the sand stretches for miles and the smiles are free of charge.

Then, rev up your family's engine with a visit to the Daytona International Speedway for a behind-the-scenes tour, offering adrenaline-pumping excitement at family-friendly prices.

But wait, there's more! Take a leisurely stroll down the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, where free concerts and fireworks light up the night with joy and wonder. For a change of pace, explore the Marine Science Center, where interactive exhibits and a sea turtle rehabilitation facility offer educational fun for a small admission fee.

And when it's time to eat, dive into the local seafood scene, where casual beachside eateries serve up delicious dishes that won't break the bank. Daytona Beach is the perfect spring break getaway for families seeking sun, fun, and a treasure trove of memories without spending a pirate's ransom.

Pro Tip: When in town, check out Westgate Harbour Beach Resort for a relaxing, beachside retreat!

10 | Sedona, AZ | Sedona, Arizona is a vibrant little desert town that has it all: stunning natural attractions, delicious dining, quirky art galleries, and a captivating history told through the bright red rock that surrounds the area. If you’re not afraid of a bumpy adventure, strap into one of their famous Pink Jeep Tours for some serious off-roading.

If you’re looking to get wet, check out Slide Rock State Park, located just seven miles north of Sedona, it’s a popular spot for families to cool down, hang out and escape the desert heat. Its name literally comes from the 80-foot natural water slide formed from the rocks in the bed of Oak Creek.

The water is cold and the rocks are slippery, but hours of family fun can be had here. Don’t forget to bring in your own food, the dry rocks above the slide provide the perfect spot to sit and have a picnic!

Pro Tip: If you're visiting Mesa, Arizona, located around three hours away, why not get a round of golf in at Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort ! Try for a hole-in-one while the kids hit the pool!

11 | Glenwood Springs, CO | Known for its relaxing hot springs, this lesser known mile-high city just three hours from the Denver International Airport is the ideal spring break destination for families. In addition to its hot springs resort, which boasts the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world, you’ll also find ancient caves to explore and America’s only mountaintop amusement park!

To enjoy Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, you’ll have to take a gondola to the top of the mountain. If you’re looking for free fun, Glenwood Springs is nestled perfectly in the Rocky Mountains and offers tons of stunning views and easy to moderate hikes. One of the most popular is the trail that leads to the grave of Doc Holliday, a famous gunfighter and gambler that died in the town in 1887.

12 | Lumpkin, GA | If you’ve never heard of Lumpkin, Georgia – trust me, you’re not alone. But tucked into this small town 140 miles south of Atlanta is a hidden gem for nature lovers that makes for an excellent spring break getaway for families on a budget. Providence Canyon State Park is known as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon.”

The park features over 1,000 acres of unique geological formations and vibrant red dirt. You can hike for hours and its trails provide a great mix of shade and sun. Nearby accommodations are slightly hard to come by. The closest, however, is Florence Marina State Park, just down the road, offering campsites and rustic cabins that feature full kitchens and bathtubs.

Omaha Brewing Company, a fantastic spot for a great selection of locally brewed beers, is less than 10 minutes down the road. For dinner, venture across state lines into Eufaula, Alabama. This historic city boasts Civil War-era cemeteries, mansions, and tons of Southern small town charm. Check out Cajun Corner for some tasty fare with New Orleans flare.

13 | Grand Canyon National Park, AZ | With nearly six million visitors annually, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular destinations within the United States national park system. It offers panoramic views of one of the seven natural wonders of the world. If you’ve never been, this spring break is the perfect opportunity to do so!

Be sure to pack some blankets and jackets and hang around after your daytime hikes. The real magic of the canyon is revealed as the sun goes down. The canyon totally transforms and changes color, from the oranges, reds, and greens that are visible during the day to being blanketed in hues of amber, pink and purple. Seeing a Grand Canyon sunset is totally bucket list worthy.

14 | Gettysburg, PA | A visit to Gettysburg is sure to be both educational and fun! Pay a visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park to learn about the Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most crucial battles of the Civil War, taking place in July of 1863.

After learning all about what occurred on the battlefield, it’s worth paying a visit to the Jennie Wade House, a museum dedicated to the home life of civilians during wartime. Jennie Wade was a young woman who was working in her kitchen when two stray bullets pierced through her door, claiming her life.

Like most towns with a long and rich history, you might be interested to spend some time with spirits of the past. You can also visit the Gettysburg National Cemetery or take a walking ghost tour of a historic house.

The cemetery contains over 3,500 graves from the Civil War, including the graves of hundreds of unidentified soldiers. It’s also home to the Lincoln Gettysburg Address Memorial, the site of the president’s world-famous speech!

15 | Mammoth Cave, KY | Ever spent the day exploring pitch black passageways 300 feet underground? That might sound daunting, but Mammoth Cave National Park makes visiting this incredible geological feature possible for thousands of families a year. Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world, with over 400 miles of known subterranean passages.

The park offers a few different types of tours, varying in duration and difficulty level. They even offer a self-guided tour where you can explore some of the most popular areas of the cave system at your own pace, including its historic entrance, Rotunda, Giant’s Coffin, and more.

Each room of the cave is well lit and includes safe and sturdy stairwells and paths to guide you around the cave, but park rangers will encourage you to consider what it might have been like for the first humans who ventured into the cave’s blackness nearly 5,000 years ago.

If you end up looking for something to do above ground, Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo is just 15 minutes from Mammoth Cave. Access their Outback, where you can stroll through an open field with kangaroos! Get a selfie with a kangaroo in Kentucky?! Who would’ve thought!

16 | Washington D.C. | As the nation’s capital, Washington D.C is not at all short on things to do. Packed tightly within its 68 square miles are dozens of museums, monuments, historical sites and government buildings. If your kids just learned about the three branches of the federal government, a trip here will help bring the classroom to life!

The Capitol, Supreme Court, and White House are all located in D.C and represent each facet of the American legal system at their highest level. When it comes to museums, the Smithsonian is fantastic and typically offers free admission 365 days a year.

You can also head outside for some fresh air and explore the National Mall, home to some of the most captivating monuments to our nation’s history – from the Washington Monument to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This area is very walkable and if you’re lucky, your visit just might coincide with the spring cherry blossom bloom! Make sure to look up the dates. They change slightly ever year.

17 | Gainesville, FL | Situated in between Orlando and Jacksonville, Gainesville is a small town with big energy. Typically, Gainesville is packed to the brim with college kids on every corner. Home to the University of Florida, more than 50,000 students call this Florida town their temporary place of residence. But Gainesville is also a great city to visit for a family-friendly spring break trip on a budget.

When you first arrive, spend the day exploring the university campus, checking out the iconic Century Tower and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, known amongst Gainesville natives and students as The Swamp. If you have any pizza lovers in the fam, for dinner head over to Satchels Pizza, a super quirky pizza joint where you can dine on your pie inside an old Volkswagen van.

Gainesville is also primely located less than an hour from three of the best natural springs in Florida: Blue Springs, Ichetucknee Springs and Ginnie Springs! Florida springs are refreshing, relaxing and fun for the entire family. Whether you like to swim, float, or sunbathe on land, the springs have something for everyone.

Ginnie Springs has higher fees but provides quality inner tubes and is very well maintained. Gilchrest Blue Springs State Park is super laid back. The area near the swimming hole also features a snack bar with cheap treats along with picnic tables and tons of shade.

18 | Atlanta, GA | Known for its sports teams and southern hospitality, Atlanta is a vibrant city whose culture is the perfect mixture of modernity, history and tradition. There are tons of things to see and do in both downtown Atlanta and in the surrounding suburbs and nature areas. In the city center, visit the Georgia Aquarium, World of Cocoa-Cola or the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

You can also learn about important aspects of the Civil Rights Movement by visiting the childhood home of Martin Luther King Jr. Escape the city with a day trip to Stone Mountain Park, just 25 miles outside of Atlanta. The park features 15 miles of hiking and trails with varying ranges in difficulty.

The Walk-Up Trail is only one mile and features views of downtown Atlanta and the Appalachian Mountains. There’s even a snack bar at the summit, which is over 1,600 feet above sea level! Similar to the Wizard of Oz, you just follow the painted yellow line along the trail and you’ll reach the top in no time.

19 | Destin, FL | Located in the panhandle of Florida, Destin is a popular spring break beach destination for those in the south. Its much easier to get to than other beaches in Florida, as it's just an hour from Mobile, three hours from Montgomery and four hours from New Orleans. With its beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, its waters are turquoise and crystal clear! Because of this, it’s the ideal spot for snorkeling, fishing and boating.

There are tons of great rental and tour spots for visitors looking to experience Destin like a local. Visit the Destin Harbour Boardwalk for some great restaurants with fresh seafood and fun beachy vibes! And for a fun, super-soaked day off the beach, head to Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park to race down rides and slides and float down a lazy river.

20 | St. George, UT | St. George is known for its close proximity to both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, two of the most popular national parks in the state, each known for Utah’s signature vibrant red rocks and one of a kind geological structures.

If you decide to make a visit to Zion’s most popular hiking area, the Narrows, make sure you wear shorts and mentally prepare to walk around the rest of the day with soggy socks. A hike through the Narrows requires getting your feet wet in the river that passes through the appropriately-named gorge.

When it comes to Bryce Canyon, no visit is complete without venturing down into the canyon itself. The preferred method for many? Horseback! There are several companies to choose from that will outfit each member of your family for a day of fun. The guides that lead these tours are well versed in the history of the canyon and will keep you entertained with interesting facts and cowboy stories!

BONUS #1 | Estes Park, CO | The quaint town of Estes Park is sometimes referred to as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Spend the morning and afternoon hiking and driving the winding roads that make up the national park, making sure to stop at every lookout spot to take in the panoramic mountain views. Check their website before your visit to ensure the roads and trails you want to explore are open and in good condition.

While typically open late-May, if you have the chance, make your way up to the Alpine Visitor’s Center along Trail Ridge Road for breathtaking views as well as snacks and gifts.

Fun fact, this is the highest elevation visitor center in the National Park System at 11,796 feet! If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in nature, the hike starting at the Bierstadt Lake trailhead is easy to moderate, with an excellent payoff at the top. The end of the trail opens up to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by forest.

Once back in town, a stroll through the main downtown streets offers plenty of shops and eateries. For the kids and candy lovers – check out all of the shops that specialize in freshly made taffy! For lodging, the Estes Park KOA Campground is a great, affordable option and is super convenient in terms of location.

Fans of Stephen King’s horror movie classic The Shining will be excited to pay a visit to the historic Stanley Hotel – one spooky night in this hotel in the 1970s became the inspiration for King’s famous novel! Some of the rooms are even known to be tied to certain paranormal spirits… Don’t fear, even if you can’t manage to book a stay here, they also offer fabulous daytime and nighttime tours.

BONUS #2 | Custer, SD | South Dakota is one of the least populated states in the country, but don’t let that fool you! It’s absolutely worth paying a visit to! Home to the iconic Mount Rushmore memorial and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Black Hills mountain range, lovers of nature and classic Americana will find lots to do in this expansive midwestern state.

The small city of Custer has tons of old Western charm including a picturesque downtown featuring classic saloons, cafes, and specialty shops boasting Western wear, leather, jewelry and more. A visit to Mount Rushmore is a great spring break option that won’t break the bank! There are several paved paths that make taking in the monument and its history easy from any angle.

You’ll also want to spend a day exploring Custer State Park, keeping your eyes peeled for some of the 1,500 gigantic buffalo that roam within the gates. You won’t have to look too closely. They’re hard to miss! You might even see one cross the road in front of your car.

Take your time enjoying the scenic highways and byways that wind through the sprawling park. Be sure to stop for some pictures and a picnic at Sylvan Lake, one of the most recognizable spots in the park, known for its rock formations and its feature in the second National Treasure film!

If for any reason you missed out on a buffalo sitting in the park, you may just into some of the majestic beasts back in town – stunning statues of the animal were hand-painted by a local artist then placed on various street corners in downtown Custer.

BONUS #3 | St. Augustine, FL | Did you know that St. Augustine is considered the oldest city in America? The city has come a long way since 1565 and is a great place for an affordable spring break getaway! Known for its 17th-century Spanish fort, the Castillo de San Marcos, as well as its guided ghost tours, exploring St. Augustine’s history is both fun and interactive.

The Old Jail After Dark Trolly Tour takes you inside the city’s old jailhouse. A truly hands-on experience, you’ll get up close and personal with the spirits that haunt the jail using the latest ghost hunting equipment.

The city is also home to Flagler College, formerly the Hotel Ponce de Leon. It is one of the first buildings in the nation to receive electricity and a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture that is a popular spot for visitors. St. Augustine is a very walkable city, with the historic downtown area offering tons of unique bars, eateries, and shops just steps away from the hotels that line the water.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Break Vacations for Families on a Budget

When planning a spring break vacation for families on a budget, several common questions arise. Below are some frequently asked questions along with their answers, offering practical advice for affordable family vacations:

Q: What are some tips for affordable dining during spring break?

Cook Your Meals: Choose accommodations with kitchen facilities to save money by preparing your own meals. Check out some recipes from us !

Picnics and Pack Lunches: For days out exploring, pack picnics or lunches to avoid eating out for every meal.

Happy Hour and Specials: Take advantage of happy hours or restaurant specials for dining out affordably.

Q: Are there ways to save on activities and attractions?

Free Attractions: Research free attractions and events in your destination. Many cities offer free museums, parks and cultural events.

Discount Passes: Look for city passes that offer discounted access to multiple attractions.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking, biking and beach days are low-cost ways to enjoy your destination.

Q: What are some general tips for planning a budget-friendly spring break?

Early Planning: Booking flights and accommodations early can lead to significant savings.

Flexible Travel Dates: Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find cheaper flights and accommodations.

Set a Budget: Have a clear budget and stick to it, allocating funds for accommodations, food, activities and unexpected expenses.

Q: How can families save money on accommodations?

Off-Peak Booking: Staying just outside prime locations or booking during the week instead of weekends can result in significant savings.

Loyalty Programs: Use loyalty programs like the World of Westgate (WOW) Loyalty Program to earn benefits that can save money in the long run.

Cash-Back Credit Cards: Use a cash-back credit card to get money back on what you spend. Check out the World of Westgate Mastercard® !

Q: How can families save on transportation costs?

Public Transportation: Use public transportation instead of renting a car or taking taxis.

Walk or Bike: Choose accommodations central to the attractions you want to visit, allowing you to walk or bike.

Compare Transportation Options: Use apps to compare costs between rental cars, public transportation and ride-sharing services.

Q: How can families find deals and discounts for travel?

Travel Websites: Use travel deal websites to find discounts on flights, accommodations and packages.

Social Media and Newsletters: Follow travel blogs , airlines and hotels on social media, or subscribe to their newsletters for exclusive deals.

Last-Minute Deals: If you're flexible, last-minute travel deals can offer significant savings.

Final Thoughts about Springs Break Ideas for Families on a Budget!

There is truly nothing like the lasting memories created during a family vacation. There is fun to be had in every corner of the U.S., you just have to know where to look!

Many of the family-friendly destinations on this list are cities that boast parks within the National Park System. If you plan to visit several parks, you might to check out the America the Beautiful, the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands annual pass.

For just one fee, your family can access over 2,000 federal recreation sites! Looking for even more vacation ideas, tips and insider tricks? Be sure to check out our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog .

Stay safe and happy travels!

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At Westgate Resorts , when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690 .

* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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6 Spring Break Trips for Adventure Lovers on a Budget

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Spring break is coming up soon, and it doesn’t have to be synonymous with expensive or crowded. You can get away from it all on a dime if you know where to go. Plus, you’ll find plenty of good reasons to travel at this time of year, from blooming wildflowers  to  corn snow .

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

The wildflowers in 620,000-acre  Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , two hours northeast of San Diego, are stunning come springtime. Take a hike along 18.9 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, which cuts through it, or the four-mile Palm Canyon Trail , and you’ll spot blooming yuccas, cacti, sunflowers, dandelions, and desert lilies. The flowering usually starts in late February or early March and lasts through May, but call the park’s wildflower hotline (760-767-4684) for the latest update. Stay at the 15-room  Borrego Valley Inn (from $175), or use Hipcamp to find a  rustic cabin  at a nearby retreat center (from $80).  Bike Borrego rents mountain bikes and offers guided bike tours in the park.

Rossland, British Columbia

Hostels aren’t what they used to be.   Expect the affordable, communal vibe but in a much more upscale package. Take, for example,  Nowhere Special , a design-forward hostel that opened in late 2018 at the base of  Red Mountain Resort , outside the town of Rossland . You can get private rooms or bunks starting at $30 a night, whip up a meal in a sleek shared kitchen, and tap into high-speed Wi-Fi in the lounge. Plus, spring skiing at Red Mountain is always a good time. The resort closes for the season on April 5, but before then, you’ll find zero crowds and plenty of corn snow, as well as pond skimming, concerts, and end-of-season parties.

Reed Bingham State Park, Georgia

Want to stay on your own private island for just $35 a night? At  Reed Bingham State Park , 20 minutes east of the town of Moultrie, Georgia, you can do just that. Rent a canoe from the park (from $60) and you can paddle a short distance to a primitive, remote campsite on Eagle Island, smack in the middle of the park’s 375-acre Lake Reed Bingham. From there, you can fish, swim, or explore the island. Or paddle back to shore to hike seven miles of trails. In spring, keep your eyes open for baby bald eagles hatching and leaving their nests.

Portland, Oregon

So you want to go camping for spring break, but you don’t want to fly with all your camping gear.  Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel in Portland recently partnered with gear-rental company  Xscape Pod on a  package deal that solves that problem. Stay a few nights in the hotel and then a few nights road-tripping and camping along the Oregon coast . The package starts at $210, which includes one night in the hotel and one night of camping. That also includes 20 percent off your room rate and gear rental. Your kit—sleeping bags and pads, tents, a propane stove, kitchen supplies, camp chairs, a cooler, and more—can be arranged for pickup or delivered directly to the hotel. Xscape Pod’s campsite concierge can help you book a location, or try central Oregon’s  Beachside State Recreation Site (from $21), a stunning campground on a sandy beach, perfect for whale-watching.

Playa Guiones , Costa Rica

Located on the Pacific coast’s Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Guiones is a four-mile-long, white-sand beach with a stellar surf break. Stay at the  Gilded Iguana (from $179), a shorefront hotel that has an on-site surf school for lessons, rentals, and guided outings. Don’t miss the property’s weekly live music and daily yoga classes.  Nosara MTB rents mountain bikes and leads tours of surrounding trails, and just north, you can watch nesting turtles this time of year at Ostional National Wildlife Refuge . Liberia International Airport is about two and a half hours away, and the hotel can arrange for an airport shuttle, but flights from the U.S. into San José International (five hours away) tend to be considerably cheaper.

Washington, D.C. 

In the spring, the nation’s capital city turns pink with blooming cherry blossoms. The four-week-long  National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place from March 20 through April 12 and includes free events like kite festivals on the grounds of the Washington Monument and street parades down Constitution Avenue. The  Moxy Hotel (from $153), minutes from the  National Mall , has a hip bar and lounge stocked with board games. Take a hike or run in 1,754-acre  Rock Creek Park , one of the country’s largest city parks, which has 32 miles of trails.

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15 Family-Friendly Midwest Spring Break Ideas

It’s that time of the year folks to start dreaming of your next trip! With warmer weather right around the corner, let’s talk about Midwest spring break ideas. 

1. Hannibal, Missouri

Plan to walk in the footsteps of Mark Twain himself in his hometown of Hannibal. Visit the charming river community to see where he grew up and climb in the cave that inspired his stories. 

Hannibal is a great Midwest family vacation to combine a little American history with your adventures. 

What to Do: Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Mark Twain Cave, Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, Haunted Hannibal Ghost Tours and Riverview Park.

Where to Eat: Fiddlesticks Food & Spirits Company, Becky Thatcher’s Diner, Mark Twain Brewery, and Becky’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium.

Where to Stay: Hotel with Indoor Pool and Free Breakfast

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, if you book through our link we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the blog!

2. Springfield, Illinois

No reason spring break can’t be fun AND educational too! We’ve visited Springfield multiple times, our latest adventure was on our Route 66 trip from Chicago where we visited the Presidential Museum. It’s a must-see for children and adults alike! 

No need to plan because we put together a Springfield Itinerary for you!

What to Do: Lincoln Home, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, Lincoln Tomb, Ergadoozy Creative Play Center (kids under 12), Henson Robinson Zoo, and Knight’s Action Park (check opening dates).

Where to Eat: Cozy Dog Drive In, Incredibly Delicious, Mel-O-Cream Donuts, and Gallina’s Pizza.

Where to Stay: Hotel with Free Parking, Breakfast, Indoor Hot Tub & Pool plus Free Evening Drinks & Hors D’oeuvres

3. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis should top any Midwest family weekend getaways list because there is so much to do and see. From the world’s largest children’s museum to the oldest continuously operated racecourse, Indy has a lot going on.

For more details on what to discover on your trip, read our Indy Must-Do’s . 

What to Do: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Conner Prairie Living History Museum, The Canal Walk, Indy Motor Speedway, Indy Zoo, Capitol Building, and White River Gardens.

Where to Eat: Maxine’s Chicken and Waffles, Mug-n-Bun, Shoefly Public House, Old Spaghetti Factory, and Flying Cupcake Bakery.

Where to Stay: A Hotel with a Great Location, Indoor Pool and Free Breakfast

4. Branson, Missouri

Branson is probably the most underrated family destination in the Midwest. It’s time the city shed its cheesy musical reputation because it has a lot of cool things to do for kids and adults alike. 

What to Do: Titanic Museum, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, Table Rock Lake Trail, Dick’s 5 & 10 Store, Dogwood Canyon, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, and Branson Landing. Read more about the Top Ten Things to do in Branson with Kids here.

Where to Eat: Danna’s BBQ & Burger Shop, White River Fish House, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Pasghettis Italian Restaurant, and Hurts Donuts.

Where to Stay: 2-bedroom Condo with outdoor swimming pool, full kitchen and free parking

5. Door County, Wisconsin

If you don’t want your typical busy spring break trip, choose Door County for a quiet getaway. All the craziness of the tourist seasons fall away this time of year, and you can enjoy the place without the crowds.

From snowmobiling to ice skating, sleigh rides, or flaming fish boils, there’s a little something around every cozy corner. 

What to Do: Create your own art at Hands On Art Studio, snowshoe, cross-country ski, Door County Maritime Museum, ice skate, sledding, tubing, Third Avenue TAP Playhouse, sleigh rides, Sister Bay Bowl, ice fishing or snowmobile rides. 

Where to Eat: *Always check winter hours.* Door County Coffee & Tea, White Gull Inn & Restaurant, Shipwrecked Restaurant & Brewery, Door County Candy, Door County Deli, and Sweetie Pies.

Where to Stay: Apartment with full kitchen, indoor pool, and hot tub.

6. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Home to one of the largest malls in the United States, Minneapolis is jam-packed with interesting things to do. From indoor roller coasters and mini-golf to outdoor hikes and parks, it’ll be easy to fill in your itinerary. 

What to Do: Mall of America, Sculpture Garden, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnehaha Park, Can Can Wonderland, Crayola Experience, The Works Museum, and Nickelodeon Universe. 

Where to Eat: Brasa, Izzy’s Ice Cream, Bonfire, Chris and Rob’s Taste Authority, Pizzeria Lola, and Pat’s Tap. 

Where to Stay: Cool Hotel near Mall of America

7. Black Hills, South Dakota

One of the best Midwest family road trips is to the Black Hills of South Dakota. In fact, it even made my list of favorite road trips from Chicago . 

You’ll find history, nature, wildlife, and scenic drives throughout the region.

To plan your trip, check out our in-depth 7 day Black Hills Itinerary here. 

What to Do: Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Evans Plunge Hot Springs, Crazy Horse, and Badlands National Park.

Where to Eat: Chuck Wagon Dinner Show, Baker’s Bakery & Cafe, Black Hills Burger & Bun Co, Wall Drug, and Legion Lake Lodge. 

Where to Stay: Bavarian Inn with Free Breakfast & Indoor Pool

8. Saint Louis, Missouri

Looking for a frugal family vacation midwest-style? Then St. Louis is THE place. The city offers so many great attractions and the best part is most of them are free!

If you’d like to read more, check out our post for our favorite St. Louis things to do here. 

What to Do: Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, City Museum, Science Center, Saint Louis Zoo, and The Magic House.

Where to Eat: Crown Candy Kitchen, The Fountain on Locust, Fitz’s, Rooster, Pappy’s Smokehouse, and Hodak’s Restaurant and Bar.

Where to Stay: Hotel with Indoor Pool with a Free Breakfast

READ NEXT: BEST MIDWEST FAMILY VACATION WITH TODDLERS

9. Shawnee National Forest in Illinois

A hidden outdoor gem in our home state of Illinois is the Shawnee National Forest where you’ll find neat hiking trails and cozy cabins. Since it’s mostly outdoor adventures, Shawnee falls on our budget Midwest vacations list. Read here for our weekend itinerary.  

What to Do: Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, Cave-in-Rock State Park, Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area, Garden of the Gods, Giant City State Park, and Triggs Tower.

Where to Eat: E-Town River Restaurant (check hours, seasonal), Ned’s Shed, Vienna Diner, Chocolate Factory, Red Onion, Diver Down, and Mackie’s.

Where to Stay: A Private Cabin with two bedrooms

10. Boyne Mountain, Michigan

Whether you want to splash inside at Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark or hit the ski slopes, there are activities galore at Boyne Mountain. And once you get there, you don’t have to leave because it’s all in one place making it one of the best family vacations in the Midwest.

What to Do: Tubing, Sno-Go Biking, Horse-drawn Carriage Rides, Indoor Waterpark, Skiiing, Ice Skating, Zip Lining, or Dog Sledding.

Where to Eat: Snack Shack, Eagle’s Nest, Waffle Cabin, and Happy Taco’s.

Where to Stay: Resort with an Indoor Waterpark

11. French Lick, Indiana

Number one reason for a visit to French Lick with kids is for Wilstem Ranch, where you can give an elephant a bath or schedule an animal encounter with any of the other five exotic animals there.

Plus, there’s an indoor water park, zipline course, and theme-excursion train rides. All aboard!

What to Do: Wilstem Ranch, French Lick Scenic Railway, Big Splash Water Park, West Baden Springs Hotel, and Marengo Cave.

Where to Eat: 33 Brick Street, German Café, French Licks Ice Cream, and Vintage Café. 

Where to Stay: Family-friendly resort with Indoor Water Park.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Wilstem (@wilstem) on Oct 11, 2018 at 9:02am PDT

12. Kenosha, Wisconsin

Another one of our favorite Midwest vacation spots for families is Kenosha. There are interesting museums, great restaurants and neat lighthouses all along beautiful Lake Michigan.  

We took our nephews a few years ago over their spring break and they have been asking to go back ever since. 

And the best part is with reasonably priced hotels and attractions, it’s a budget-friendly destination. Read here for more info in and around Kenosha. 

What to Do: Dinosaur Discovery Museum, Ride Electric Streetcar, Kenosha Public Museum, Sculpture Walk on the Lakefront, Civil War Museum, Lighthouses, and Mars Cheese Castle.

Where to Eat: Kaiser’s, The Daily Dose, Choo Choo Charlie’s, Frank’s Diner, and Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant. 

Where to Stay: Hotel in good location with a free full breakfast and indoor pool.

13. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City was one of many Midwest vacations that surprised us. We found so many great things to do, read here for our recommendations on what to do and see in KC . 

What to Do: Kaleidoscope, Union Station, National WWI Museum, Kansas City Zoo, Legoland Discovery Center, Wonderscope Children’s Museum, and Crossroads Art District. 

Where to Eat: Kate’s Kitchen, Donutology, Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, and Joe’s Bar-B-Que

Where to Stay: Hotel Suites with Free Parking & Breakfast and an Indoor Pool.

14. Chicago, Illinois

What isn’t there to do in Chicago? Cool museums, fun parks, exotic animals, good food, and beautiful architecture. 

What to Do: Skydeck at Willis Tower, Museum of Science and Industry, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, Blue Man Group, Millennium Park Campus, and Lincoln Park Zoo. 

Where to Eat: Wildberry Cafe, Safehouse Chicago, Portillo’s, Crosby’s Kitchen, Gino’s East, and Garrett’s Popcorn.

Where to Stay: Hotel near Riverwalk with Free Breakfast and Indoor Pool 

15. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Even though Milwaukee is well known for its beer industry, there are family-friendly things to do all around the city. 

What to Do: Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Discovery World, Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee Bucks Basketball Game and Milwaukee County Zoo.

Where to Eat: SafeHouse, AJ Bombers, Leon’s Frozen Custard, Cranky Al’s, and Milwaukee Public Market. 

Where to Stay: Brewhouse Boutique Hotel with Kitchenettes in a Great Location

Do you have any other Midwest spring break ideas? Or other family vacations in the Midwest you’d like to recommend? Share with us in the comments below!

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Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

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4 Responses

All of these destinations are beautiful to visit during spring time. I’ve been to quite a few of these places, but I’m so happy you’ve mentioned Kansas City. It is actually a nice place for family vac. We traveled around Missouri for 5 years in a row until we started a horse farm in Iowa. Hope to get back ASAP!

Jill Sparrow

I live in the Midwest and most of these destinations are very high-crime areas.

Dang Travelers

I (we) live in the Midwest, and that’s not true. All big cities have a higher crime rate than rural areas, but they also have way more to offer as far as culture.

Way more to offer… that’s an understatement. 🙂 Folks who don’t live in the cities think crime is ever present whereas those of us who live in them know it’s pretty rare… just happens occasionally when a lot of people live in closer proximity. Know your bearings, look like you know where you are going, and it’s highly unlikely you’ll encounter any trouble. I’ve never had an issue with crime in the Twin Cities myself and have lived here 30 out of my 40 years.

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16+ Best Spring Break Destinations For Families (2024)

W ith winter coming to an end, families are ready to enjoy some warm weather on their spring break family vacation. Now is the best time to get started on researching destinations, finding prices, and booking your trip.

Wondering where to go on vacation with your kids during spring break? Here are some of the best spring break destinations for families.

Whether your spring break is in March or April, we’ve got you covered. This list offers European, Caribbean, and US destinations. If you are planning a last-minute trip, you’ll find some options that can be a great road trip so you can save money on flights and rental cars.

Did we miss any of your favorite spring break destinations for families? Leave us a comment and we’ll update this post.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own. Note that we experienced some of these top spring break destinations as part of media trips or comped stays.

This post has been updated for the 2024 spring break.

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Grand cayman.

I’ve visited the Cayman Islands (on complimentary press trips twice) three times now, and I always love it. Our hotel picks are the Ritz-Carlton or the Westin Grand Cayman Resort – both located on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.

We’ve traveled there with JetBlue Vacations , which is a great option, and also on a cruise excursion. There’s so much to do – but you’ll also want to spend some time on the gorgeous beach. Spring would be a great time to visit.

Keep in mind that these two resorts aren’t all-inclusive vacations, so you’ll want to budget for food and drinks. They are beach resorts though, so you’ll be able to have a family-friendly spring break even if you don’t want to do any activities.

However, if you have the budget, you may want to visit a few local attractions while you are there. We recommend visiting Stingray City, the Cayman Turtle Farm, and Rum Point Beach.

See reviews of hotels in Grand Cayman here .

Turks and Caicos

Another one of my favorite spring break family destinations is Turks and Caicos. It was on my family travel bucket list for years, before I finally had the opportunity to visit. We loved our press trip stay at the West Bay Club, and found that there was so much to do in Turks and Caicos with kids. I have since returned four additional times and would go annually if possible.

It’s a relaxing place to visit, so you’ll want to spend plenty of time at the beach. If you are looking for an all-inclusive resort, one of our all-time favorite places to stay is Beaches Turks and Caicos , which offers 22 restaurants and over 700 rooms.

It’s one of the best places to stay with kids and would be a great family spring break trip.

Read reviews of Turks and Caicos resorts here .

San Antonio – one of our favorite spring break ideas

San Antonio, Texas is a great family travel destination, with lots of things to do with kids. We recently visited San Antonio for a spring break vacation and loved our stay. There’s so much to do with families, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to spring break.

The San Antonio River Walk is a must-visit, with things for everyone to enjoy. Of course, I also recommend a visit to the Alamo – here are 4 surprising things when visiting the Alamo.  

You can also visit SeaWorld San Antonio , which is open at select times in the early spring. If possible, I’d recommend staying on the River Walk – there’s so much to do there, and it’s easy to walk around for dinner and shopping.

See hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is one of the most popular family vacation spring break destinations, and right now, there is so much going on at Walt Disney World. You can stay on or off-property, and we have recommendations for the best hotels for your Walt Disney World vacation. Remember to book early, so that you can make your dining reservations well in advance.

There are lots of other great things to do in Orlando as well, including other theme parks, nature activities, the Orlando ICON Park, and so much more.

If you’d rather stick with a more relaxing beach vacation in Florida , the Fort Myers area may be the best destination for you.  If you fly into Fort Myers, there are lots of places you can stay just a short drive away. Consider visiting Marco Island , which is a relaxing and fun place to stay. 

While I just enjoy staying on the beach, the Dolphin Study Eco-Tour and Cruise is a must-do. If you are visiting during March, you may be able to catch a spring training baseball game in the area. Find hotels in the Fort Myers area on TripAdvisor .

Other Destinations for a Florida Spring Break for Families

Florida is one of the most popular 2024 family spring break destinations in the United States. It is filled with other great spring break destinations for families, including Amelia Island , Miami Beach, Sarasota, Clearwater Beach , Tampa , and Destin/Fort Walton.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, experience nature, or explore the local area, there are lots of options. We especially love the beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The best Florida spring break destinations for families offer waterfront activities, museums, and other fun activities.

San Diego, California is a great option if you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation combined with some family activities. Attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Disneyland , and Legoland are just a short drive away. During our stay last year, we stayed at the Bahia Resort Hotel on Mission Bay and loved both the location and the hotel.

The weather in San Diego is fairly consistent throughout the year, so there’s never a bad time to visit. You could easily spend a whole week there. Check out other hotels in San Diego here .

Save on a Southern California trip from Get Away Today by using the code  FTM10. 

Spring break is also a fantastic time to enjoy a vacation in the Los Angeles/Anaheim area. In addition to Disneyland Resort (the very first Disney park), you’ll also find Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Hollywood (with the brand new Super Nintendo World).

Save money on your theme park tickets by booking through  Get Away Today . They offer vacation packages as well as individual ticket sales. Disney travel agents don’t charge guests an extra commission and can help you find deals.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix is one of our favorite warm-weather destinations. There are so many fantastic, kid-friendly resorts. Although you may want to spend much of your time at the resort, there are so many other things to do in the area. This includes botanical gardens, zoos, aquariums, hiking trails, and so much more.

If you visit the greater Phoenix area in March, you have the opportunity to check out a variety of spring training baseball games. The Cactus League teams all play within a relatively small radius, making it easy to see multiple teams, regardless of where you are staying in the area. Find the best hotels in Phoenix at TripAdvisor.

The Azores, the closest and one of the most affordable European destinations is a temperate 65-70 degrees in April.  With family activities like whale watching, hiking, biking, gardens, forts, and museums, you’ll find plenty of things to do. 

Azores Airlines has traditionally offered great deals in the spring from many US destinations. You could also visit the Azores on the way to mainland Portugal, or just choose to visit the Azores.

Washington DC

We visited Washington DC on a family spring break getaway a few years ago. It’s perfect for kids who are old enough to appreciate the history and culture of our nation’s capital.

Of course, my kids’ favorite spot was the International Spy Museum, which moved to a new facility. You can stay right in the city or in one of the many nearby suburbs. We chose to stay in National Harbor, MD and enjoyed our stay. Read more about things to do in Washington DC here.

Family Cruise

Would you rather visit several Caribbean destinations?  Then choose a cruise – perhaps a Disney cruise leaving from Florida and stopping in the Bahamas? 

I love Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island in the Bahamas – and think it’s great for families. We’ve done both the Western Caribbean Itinerary and the Eastern Caribbean Itineraries on the Disney Fantasy – both are fabulous.

You could also choose to take a shorter cruise as well. We enjoy the 3 or 4 day trip on the Disney Dream, which leaves from Port Canaveral and goes to Nassau and Castaway Cay.

Puerto Rico

You won’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, yet it’ll feel like a world away. Spring is a great time to visit because it falls in between the winter busy season and the rainy season. We visited a few years ago in February, and the weather was absolutely beautiful. I’ve since returned in March and also found perfect weather.

It’s so easy to go from the airport to your resort since you don’t have to go through customs. Since it’s a domestic flight, you also won’t have to arrive at the airport too early or bring a US passport. It’s also a beautiful island with many fun activities beyond the pool and beach.

I recently visited Bermuda and was so impressed with this beautiful island. Located just a 2-hour flight from Boston, Bermuda is a small island with lots of great restaurants, shops, and resorts.

Kids will love touring Crystal and Fantasy caves , located near the airport. There’s also an aquarium, a fort, and so much more. Be sure to save some time to visit the beautiful beaches. We especially enjoyed Horseshoe Bay, a public beach located in the Southampton area of the island.

Just keep in mind that the weather in Bermuda is more similar to the Carolinas than to the Caribbean. So it won’t necessarily be hot in the spring.

New York City

I love visiting New York City every time of year, but April is a great time to visit. There’s so much to do in New York, regardless of the ages of your kids. My kids love the Central Park Zoo, and we always try to see a Broadway show during our trips.

There are also countless museums, the Empire State Building, Circle Line boat tours, and so much more. You’ll want to check out these kid-friendly restaurants in NYC as well.

Music City has become a popular family vacation destination in recent years. Want to learn more about music? There’s the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Museum Hall of Fame, and the Ryman Auditorium – all of which are fun to visit. I love staying at the Gaylord Opryland , a huge resort with atriums, restaurants, and so much more.

This beautiful, historic city offers so much for families. From museums (including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum) to the nearby beaches ( Tybee Island ), Savannah is a great destination.

In your opinion, what are the best places to go for spring break? Do you prefer to hang out at the beach, or stay active?

The post 16+ Best Spring Break Destinations For Families (2024) appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .